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Green alfalfa weevil larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 29, 2024

Most alfalfa weevil larvae that were observed this week were between the first and second instar, but it is likely that later instars are present in southern counties.

A picture of a absinth wormwood plant that has white colored leaves.

Absinth Wormwood Control in the Spring

Absinth wormwood is a difficult-to-control, noxious weed that can produce great amounts of seed (50,000 seeds per-stem) and spreads only by seed, illustrating the importance of management prior to seed production.

Various weeds emerging from a research plot in some rows, while other rows are weed-free.

Weeds Are Starting to Emerge: Even After a Preemergence Herbicide Application

During recent scouting, weeds were noticed in plots treated with preemergence herbicides. Learn some troubleshooting considerations to help determine why some weeds emerge following preemergence treatments.

Green beetle larvae with a white stripe running down its body.

Alfalfa Weevil Activity Prediction Update: May 24, 2024

Degree day accumulations continue to estimate alfalfa weevil activity throughout South Dakota. Alfalfa weevil activity is likely greater in southern counties, but alfalfa should continue to be scouted statewide.

Seecorn maggot larva feeding on a seed in a field.

Seedcorn Maggot Degree Day Activity Estimates: May 24, 2024

Parts of South Dakota are currently at, slightly below, or over the 1,080 degree days for the peak second generation emergence of seedcorn maggots.

Purple-brown caterpillar with orange head on a green corn leaf.

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 24, 2024

Throughout South Dakota, common stalk borer caterpillars are still active in alternative weed and grass hosts.

Green corn leaf with ragged holes through-out caused by common stalk borer feeding.

Common Stalk Borers and Why They Matter in Early Season Corn

Based on current degree day accumulations, the common stalk borer caterpillars are developing within weeds and grass hosts. Once the caterpillars outgrow these hosts they will begin moving into corn fields.

Left: Alfalfa weevil larvae. Right: Alfalfa weevil adult.

It’s Time To Start Scouting for Alfalfa Weevils

This week, alfalfa weevil larvae have been spotted in the fields. Routine scouting is the best method to ensure that alfalfa isn’t heavily defiolated by this pest.

Top: Field pennycress leaves and seeds. Bottom: Shepherd’s purse leaves and seeds.

Early Season Prevalence of Field Pennycress and Shepherd’s Purse

Many fields that are planted to winter wheat or have yet to be tilled may have a healthy infestation of field pennycress or shepherd’s purse. Learn some expert tips for identifying and managing these weeds before they become a problem this growing season.

Purple-brown caterpillar with orange head on a green corn leaf.

Common Stalk Borer Activity Estimate: May 16, 2024

Common stalk borer caterpillars are still active in grass and weeds along field edges. Based on recent degree day data throughout the state, no scouting is necessary for common stalk borer activity in fields yet.