In Zimbabwe bollworms are the most destructive pests of cotton, capable of causing yield losses of up to 60%. Evaluation of new insecticides to complement those already on the market is an important part of bollworms control strategy. Trials were conducted at Cotton Research Institute (Kadoma), Kuwirirana (Gokwe) and Umguza (Matebeleland North) to evaluate the efficacy of Cartap hydrochloride 50SP on the control of red bollworm in cotton for three cropping seasons 2010/11 to 2012/13. Efficacy of the insecticide on predators was also assessed. The trials had five treatments laid out in a randomized complete block design replicated 4 times. Cartap Hydrochloride 50SP was evaluated at three rates, 800g/ha, 1000g/ha and 1200g/ha in comparison with untreated control and Carbaryl 85WP as the standard. Cartap Hydrochloride 50SP gave best performance in red bollworm control in seasons 2011-12 to 2012-13 at CRI, Kuwirana and Umguza at dosage rates 800g/ha, 1,000g/ha and 1,200g/ha. Cartap Hydrochloride 50SP was recommended for registration on red bollworm control in Zimbabwe at the rate of 800-1,200g/ha.

Keywords: Cartap Hydrochloride 50SP, Cabaryl 85WP, Diparopsis castanea.