Insect & Pests
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Common Stalk Borer Activity Update: May 23, 2019
Not too much is new regarding common stalk borer activity when compared to last week. Another cool, wet week has led to a limited accumulation of degree days. Based on our calculations, common stalk borer activity still doesn’t warrant any scouting. We will continue to monitor the degree days and provide updates.
Common Stalk Borer Activity Update: May 16, 2019
The hatching and movement of common stalk borer caterpillars can be estimated by using degree days with a developmental threshold of 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Common stalk borer eggs typically begin to hatch at 575 degree days.
Cabbage White Butterflies Are Here!
Keep an eye out for cabbage white butterflies in your garden. These butterflies lay eggs on the underside of the vegetable leaves. Once the eggs hatch, their caterpillars feed on cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, kale, turnips and radishes.
Small Aphid Populations Observed in Wheat
This week we received the first report of aphids in wheat for the 2021 season. The populations won’t be increasing rapidly until the daily temperatures warm up, but it is still a good idea to scout fields and determine if aphids are present.
Alfalfa Weevils Are Active, and It’s Time to Scout
Scouting and managing alfalfa weevils when they reach the determined thresholds can prevent yield loss and encourage healthy regrowth of infested alfalfa stands.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 13, 2021
Although last week was warmer, we still didn’t accumulate a lot of degree days for alfalfa weevils. However, the upcoming forecast looks more favorable for alfalfa growth and alfalfa weevil development.
Do You Have Grubs in Your Lawn?
We’ve had quite a few calls about dead patches in lawns this spring, which could be a sign of grub activity. If areas of your lawn are not greening up or appear to be dying, it is important to scout to determine if grubs are present.
Flea Beetles Already Active In Gardens
It may seem early, but flea beetles are already active in gardens in South Dakota. Adult beetles feed on leaves and stems, and their feeding will leave behind a multitude of small, irregular holes or pits.
Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 6, 2021
The cooler temperatures the last few days probably slowed down alfalfa weevils again, but everyone should be scouting fields due to the possibility of alfalfa weevil activity.
A Ban or New Rules for Chlorpyifos May Be Coming Soon
Recently, a federal appeals court gave the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency a 60-day deadline to either ban insecticides containing chlorpyrifos or set new guidelines for its use.