Wheat Insects
All Wheat Insects Content
True Armyworm Caterpillars Are Active in South Dakota Wheat
We have received a few reports of true armyworm caterpillars in wheat that are heavily feeding on the leaves. The big concern with these pests is that they will also clip wheat heads prior to harvest, so scouting is necessary to ensure that they don't cause yield losses.
Update on Chlorpyrifos Use in South Dakota
As of June 30, 2025, the labeled uses for chlorpyrifos products for food and feed are limited to alfalfa, soybean, and wheat in South Dakota. Chlorpyrifos can no longer be used to treat sunflowers.
Wheat
The SDSU Extension team provides unbiased, research-based information to help wheat growers make decisions to improve yields and profits.
Crops
During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.
Grasshoppers Are Showing up in Large Numbers in Eastern South Dakota
While scouting spring wheat in Brookings County this week, we noticed grasshopper nymph populations that were close to threshold.
Aphid Populations Continue To Increase in Wheat
English grain aphid populations are continuing to increase in wheat. With increasing pressure, it is important to scout wheat fields to ensure that the populations do not cause yield loss.
Survey of Grasshoppers in South Dakota
Fact sheet on the abundance and species diversity of grasshoppers in South Dakota
Aster Leafhoppers Showing up in South Dakota Wheat
Aster leafhoppers are present in wheat again this spring. For the last few years, aster leafhoppers have been a common occurrence in South Dakota wheat.
Don’t Forget To Scout for Aphids in Wheat
Aphids are present in South Dakota wheat fields, and that means it’s time to start scouting.
Black Grass Bug Activity Ramping Up
Black grass bugs feed on fresh green growth, which can result in stunted plants and decreased forage quality. Monitoring and potential management of black grass bugs will be of increased importance this spring, especially if drought persists.