Wheat Insects

SDSU Extension to host 34th annual Winter Wheat Meeting Aug. 17 in Draper

July 26, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension and the Jones County Crop Improvement Association will host the 34th Annual Winter Wheat Meeting on Aug. 17, 2023, in Draper, South Dakota.

Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus Management Before Planting

Wheat streak mosaic virus is one of the important diseases in winter wheat and can lead to severe yield losses. Learn how it can be effectively mitigated by using proactive management in your fields.

Army Cutworms Returning to South Dakota

A black light trap at the SDSU West River Research Farm near Sturgis has started capturing army cutworm moths. This indicates that the moths that migrated west this spring are returning to the South Dakota plains to lay eggs.

True Armyworm Caterpillars Observed in South Dakota Wheat

Wheat harvest is underway in South Dakota, and one of our seemingly annual pests has been observed in wheat fields. While scouting last week, we observed small populations of true armyworms in wheat in Northeastern South Dakota.

True Armyworm Caterpillars Spotted in South Dakota

While scouting this week we observed some very small true armyworm caterpillars. Every year these caterpillars pose a threat to wheat fields, and the best way to stay ahead of them is to start scouting before defoliation is done.

Hessian Fly: Preventing Outbreaks in Wheat

Hessian flies (Mayetiola destructor) are tiny, gnat-like flies. Their larvae are considered serious pests of wheat and occasional pests of barley and rye.

Grasshopper Activity Is Ramping Up

We have already observed increased grasshopper activity in many areas of the state and, depending on the 2022 season, they may become problematic in crops.

Brown Wheat Mites Active in South Dakota Wheat

There have been reports of brown wheat mites active in wheat in central and western South Dakota. To date, reports have been for minor infestations, but severe infestations are possible.

Low-Level Aphid Populations Present in Wheat

We are starting to receive reports of aphid populations in wheat fields throughout much of South Dakota. At this point in the season, weekly scouting is the best bet to monitor the populations.

Dingy Cutworms Observed in South Dakota Crops

Dingy cutworms have been reported in South Dakota crops, and their activity is likely to continue for at least another couple of weeks.