Wheat Insects

All Wheat Insects Content

Green wheat with small mites present near the tips of the leaves.

Drought Stress in Wheat Leads to Increased Banks Grass Mite Activity

There have been reports of large populations of Banks grass mites in South Dakota wheat fields. Banks grass mite populations are more successful during hot, dry weather that also increases the susceptibility of wheat due to it being drought stressed.

Redlegged, differential, and twostriped grasshopper nymphs.

Various Grasshopper Species Are Active Across South Dakota

While scouting, we have noticed increased grasshopper nymph activity and in some areas these populations are close to threshold levels. Crops in areas that have had high populations should be regularly scouted to ensure that extensive defoliation doesn’t go unnoticed.

Bird cherry oat aphids, English grain aphids, Greenbugs.

Aphid Populations Detected in Wheat

Aphids are present in South Dakota wheat fields, and that means it’s time to start scouting.

wheat field

Wheat

The SDSU Extension team provides unbiased, research-based information to help wheat growers make decisions to improve yields and profits.

aerial view of South Dakota farm and surrounding land

Crops

During the growing season, SDSU Extension provides weekly production recommendations.

Green leafhopper with clear wings.

Aster Leafhoppers Detected 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.

Wheat field that is turning yellow due to mite infestation.

Brown Wheat Mites Detected in South Dakota Wheat

Brown wheat mite infestations have been detected in South Dakota wheat. Typically, infestations are more commonly observed in fields experiencing drought stress, which is currently most of the state

Green wheat plants with some cut just above the soil surface.

Army Cutworms Causing Issues in South Dakota Wheat

Army cutworm caterpillars are active in South Dakota wheat fields. This activity is only going to increase with the forecasted temperatures.

A small black bug with tan margins on its wings resting on a grass seed head.

Drought Conditions Magnifying Impact of Black Grass Bugs

Black grass bugs are a common early-season pest of forage grasses. Drought conditions exacerbate their impact by stressing plants and reducing their ability to tolerate and recover from feeding injury.

A reddish-brown Hessian fly with long black legs and beaded antennae resting on a plant.

Hessian Flies in South Dakota

This fact sheet covers the identification, life cycle and management options for Hessian Flies in South Dakota.