Understanding Insecticides and Miticides for Turfgrass and Ornamental Plants with Dr. Juang Horng “JC” Chong


Understanding Insecticide and Miticide Modes of Action with Dr. JC


In this insightful webinar, Dr. Juang Horng “JC” Chong, a professor and extension specialist of turf and ornamentals entomology at Clemson University, delves into the intricacies of insecticide and miticide usage within the green industry. Drawing from his extensive background, Dr. Chong explains various modes of action, detailing how different insecticides and miticides work to control pest populations effectively. Key topics include the classification of pesticides, the importance of pesticide rotation programs, the history and origin of different insecticides, and practical tips for managing pests in turfgrass and ornamental plants. Discover how to build an effective pesticide rotation strategy to maintain efficacy and reduce pest resistance. This presentation is packed with valuable information, making it essential for anyone involved in pest management.


00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:12 Dr. JC Chong’s Background
00:56 Insecticide and Miticide Overview
03:06 Understanding Mode of Action
04:40 Insect Growth Regulators
04:56 Respiration and Energy Production
07:39 Unknown and Unclassified Insecticides
09:52 Insecticide Resistance Action Committee (IRAC)
13:21 Insecticide Labels and Classification
16:18 Group 1: Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors
19:14 Group 2: GABA-Gated Chloride Channel Blockers
21:09 Group 3: Pyrethroids
24:33 Group 4: Neonicotinoids
27:56 Neonicotinoids: Application Methods and Effectiveness
29:05 Concerns About Neonicotinoids and Pollinators
29:48 Introduction to Spinosad and Its Uses
31:27 Abramactin: Broad Spectrum Activity and Applications
34:19 Juvenile Hormone Mimics: Mechanism and Uses
36:15 Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt): Specificity and Application
39:17 Group 20 and 28 Insecticides: New Developments
43:44 Pesticide Rotation: Strategies to Prevent Resistance
47:16 Q&A Session: Best Practices and Recommendations


The webinar presented by Dr. Juang Horng “JC” Chong offers an in-depth overview of insecticide and miticide use in the green industry. The primary focus is on understanding the modes of action of various insecticides and the critical role of pesticide rotation in preventing resistance. Dr. Chong highlights the importance of choosing the right insecticide for specific pests and situations, while also discussing the challenges of resistance that arise from overuse of certain chemicals. Audience questions further underscore the need for holistic pest management strategies, including careful product selection and consideration of the interaction between different pest control methods.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers:

Q1: What is the importance of pesticide rotation?

•   A1: Pesticide rotation helps prevent pests from developing resistance to specific chemicals, ensuring long-term effectiveness.

Q2: How do different insecticide modes of action work?

•   A2: Insecticides can target the nervous system, growth regulation, respiration, or other critical functions in pests, leading to their death.

Q3: Can combining insecticides speed up resistance development?

•   A3: The impact of combining insecticides on resistance development is still debated, but it’s generally recommended to rotate different modes of action rather than combining them.

Q4: Are there any organic insecticides that are effective?

•   A4: Yes, spinosad is an example of an organic insecticide that is effective against certain pests, particularly caterpillars.

Q5: What products are recommended for armyworm control?

•   A5: Products like Acelepryn and Ference are recommended for effective and long-lasting control of armyworms.