Insect & Pests
All Insect & Pests Content
Time to Start Scouting for Bean Leaf Beetles
With soybean emergence underway, the next concern is early-season bean leaf beetle defoliation. Learn some expert tips for scouting and managing them before they impact yields.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: June 1, 2023
Throughout much of the state, enough degree days have accumulated for alfalfa weevil larvae to begin pupating. Scouting should continue until larvae are not observed.
Potato Leafhoppers Arriving Early This Season
Potato leafhoppers are already active in alfalfa due to prevalent south winds and above-average temperatures. Learn some tips for scouting and managing them before they impact yields.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 25, 2023
Last week we confirmed both alfalfa weevil adult and larval activity in alfalfa. Scouting should continue, as the forecasted warm weather will promote alfalfa weevil larvae feeding.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 25, 2023
Common stalk borer caterpillars are a frequent early-season pest of corn, and their hatching and movement can be estimated by using degree days. See our latest scouting and management recommendations based on observations from around the state.
Invasion of the Western Flower Thrips
Recent southerly winds brought large numbers of western flower thrips to the eastern third of South Dakota. Learn how to identify and manage this pest before they become a problem in your yard and garden.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 19, 2023
Forecasted weather conditions are ideal for alfalfa weevil activity, and early detection of feeding activity will prevent extensive defoliation.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 15, 2023
During the last week, the entire state reached enough degree days to have active alfalfa larvae. In areas with the highest accumulation of degree days, alfalfa should be scouted to ensure that alfalfa weevils don’t cause extensive defoliation.
It’s Time To Start Scouting for Alfalfa Weevils in South Dakota
With increasing temperatures, the degree days for alfalfa weevils have steadily increased. The best way to avoid serious alfalfa weevil defoliation is to scout and detect populations early.
Time to Start Scouting for Black Grass Bugs
In central and western South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring forage pest that can cause considerable damage during periods of drought. Learn how to monitor and manage this pest to protect your forages this spring.