Wheat Insects
All Wheat Insects Content
True Armyworm Caterpillars Found in South Dakota
Although true armyworms can feed on numerous crops, they are primarily an issue for corn and wheat. True armyworm caterpillars feed on leaves and can cause severe defoliation when large populations are present.
Large Grasshopper Populations Detected in South Dakota
Very large populations of grasshoppers have been detected in southeastern South Dakota. Although these grasshoppers aren’t causing serious defoliation in crops yet, there is the possibility that they will as the season progresses.
Time to Start Scouting for Black Grass Bugs
In central and western South Dakota, black grass bugs are a common spring forage pest that can cause considerable damage during periods of drought. Learn how to monitor and manage this pest to protect your forages this spring.
Army Cutworms Are Active in South Dakota
Army cutworms can rapidly reduce winter wheat stands if large populations are present. See our latest management recommendations based on observations from around the state.
Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus Showing Up in Fields
Wheat streak mosaic virus is a viral disease, which has been found in samples recently sent into the SDSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic. Learn how to identify it before it takes a toll on wheat crops.
Pre-Plant Wheat Streak Mosaic Disease Management Strategies
Drought conditions tend to promote high wheat curl mite populations. Wheat streak mosaic virus and other viruses transmitted by wheat curl mites are best managed through cultural practices performed before planting.
Differentiating Between Wheat Head Diseases and Disorders
Several diseases and disorders can develop in wheat heads. Learn the symptoms of several common disease and insect issues being observed in South Dakota wheat this growing season.
Aphid Populations Being Observed in Wheat
During the past couple of weeks, reports of aphid populations in wheat fields have slowly been increasing. Typically, the initial aphid populations are observed earlier in the season, but the 2019 spring may have delayed infestations.
Stored Grain Pests: Spring Insect and Disease Issues
Grain storage is a key component in getting your crop to market. Aside from watching bins for spoilage, moisture, and temperature changes, make sure you are looking for signs of pest infestation.
Wheat Stem Maggots Observed in S.D. Wheat
While scouting wheat fields throughout South Dakota, we have started noticing the presence of bleached heads scattered throughout many different fields. These discolored heads are the result of an infestation of the wheat stem maggot.