The information presented in the tobacco section of the Ontario Crop Protection Hub has been prepared in consultation with the Tobacco Protection and Production Committee and product registrants, based on product labels and research conducted by the Canadian Tobacco Research Foundation. It is intended to assist growers in considering options when implementing their pest management programs. When selecting products, consider several factors, including safety to the user, pre-harvest and restricted entry intervals, resistance management, compatibility with beneficial insects and acceptability to tobacco companies.

All information presented here is provided as a guideline only and does not replace the product label.  Many tobacco products are under re-evaluation with the Pest Management Regulatory Agency and may change frequently. Always consult the most recent product label (on the PMRA website or from the product registrant) prior to using, and follow all safety precautions. The pesticide label is a legal document. 

For more information on using pesticides, see Using Pesticides in Ontario

Acceptability of Tobacco Pest Control Product to Tobacco Companies

The Ontario Crop Protection Hub lists common pest control products registered for use on flue-cured tobacco in Ontario. Some tobacco products listed here may not be acceptable to all tobacco companies providing contracts to Ontario growers. 

The Tobacco Review and Evaluation Committee (TREC), an industry led group that historically tested and approved products intended for use on flue-cured tobacco grown under contract with participating tobacco companies, was dissolved in 2021. Products approved by TREC are not listed in the Ontario Crop Protection Hub. Before using any pest control product, Ontario flue-cured tobacco growers should consult with the tobacco company they are under contract with to determine which products are acceptable for use.

Rates for Tobacco Pest Control Products

Most rates reported for tobacco in the Ontario Crop Protection Hub are those listed on product labels.  In most cases, these rates are for broadcast applications (application of product uniformly over the entire field). However, in many cases for tobacco crops, a banded application (application of product in parallel strips corresponding to the crop row) might be preferred.  For many products, the broadcast rate can be converted to a banded rate as using the following formula: Banded Rate = Broadcast Rate X (Band width ÷ Between-Row-Spacing).  For detailed instructions on calibrating nozzle output to achieve banded rates with products other than fumigants, refer to Calculating Banded Applications to Tobacco For banded treatments of fumigants, refer to product labels.

Rates listed here are intended as a guide and should not replace the information found on product labels. Always read the label thoroughly and follow label instructions.