Insect & Pests
All Insect & Pests Content
Overwintering Population of Bean Leaf Beetles Are Active In Soybean
While scouting soybeans this week, extensive defoliation caused by bean leaf beetles was observed. Although insecticide seed treatments will reduce the threat of bean leaf beetle feeding during this time of the season, soybean fields should still be scouted.
Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: June 3, 2021
We are currently between the second and third generation peak emergences in South Dakota. Seedcorn maggot management must be done before planting, or the populations can be avoided by not planting during times of peak emergence.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: June 3, 2021
We still haven’t reached the degree day accumulation levels to see common stalk borers moving into corn fields. However, if weeds and grass are sprayed out along field borders, there is a very high probability that they will be forced into corn early.
Common Stalk Borers Observed in South Dakota Corn
While scouting corn this week, clear signs of common stalk borers were observed. Although our degree day estimates indicate that common stalk borers probably aren’t moving into corn yet, they can be forced into corn fields in certain situations.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: June 3, 2021
It has been a busy week for alfalfa weevils. Throughout the state, alfalfa weevils have been causing significant feeding damage. We recommend scouting alfalfa fields for the next week and treating when necessary.
Why’s My Alfalfa Field Turning White?
There have been a lot of reports of alfalfa fields in South Dakota with a white or light-brown canopy. This discoloration is the result of extensive alfalfa weevil larvae feeding.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 27, 2021
Throughout South Dakota, we still haven’t accumulated enough degree days for common stalk borers to begin moving into corn, which is a good thing. At this point in time, common stalk borer activity is still going to be limited to weeds and grassy weeds.
Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: May 27, 2021
In South Dakota, we have accumulated enough degree days across the state that the peak emergence of the overwintering seedcorn maggot population has passed. In most of South Dakota, we are at peak emergence of the second generation or slightly past it.
Wireworms in the Garden
With warming soil temperatures, overwintering wireworms have become active throughout South Dakota. Wireworms are soil-dwelling insects that can be pests of germinating seeds, seedlings and root crops.
Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: May 20, 2021
Seedcorn maggots can be an early-season pest of corn and soybean in South Dakota, typically affecting crops that are emerging or have recently emerged. Seedcorn maggots can cause direct loss by destroying planted seeds.