NITROGEN SUPPLY DURING PRODUCTION OF TOMATO TRANSPLANTS AFFECTS PREFERENCE BY COLORADO POTATO BEETLE

Host plant selection by Colorado potato beetle [Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)] was examined on tomato [Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.] transplants fertilized with varying N, P, and K concentrations during greenhouse production. In choice tests conducted with beetles in the field and the greenhouse, the insect preference for plants increased with increasing leaf tissue N concentration, but P and K concentrations had no effect. Five-day, seedling acclimatization to outdoor spring temperatures before planting reduced the insect preference for plants.