Effects of Irrigation on the Seasonal Abundance of Empoasca vitis in North-Italian Vineyards

The effect of irrigation on the abundance of Empoasca vitis populations was investigated in four vineyards located in northeastern Italy. E. vitis population densities were affected by irrigation, with higher densities of this pest recorded on irrigated vines. Highest E. vitis densities were detected in drip irrigation plots compared with non irrigated plots where water stress was highest. Moderate water stress (subirrigation plots) was associated with intermediate leafhopper densities. Implications for integrated pest management are discussed.