Insects
Recent dry weather increases risk of spider mite infestations.
With drought causing spring wheat to shrivel, the heat next week will be lethal for that portion of the crop barely hanging on. Now, grasshoppers are preying on battered fields, possibly shrinking the crop to zero.
Scouting fields for pest problems is a vital component of crop health and yield outcome.
As drought plagued the West and Plains in 2021, grasshoppers took over many pastures and crops, which demolished grasses and hayfields. In the South and Midwest, fall armyworms were a costly battle for farmers.
This pest can cost you 15% to 50% in yield loss.
Last year showed how dry conditions create the perfect playground for a few yield-robbing pests. The conditions could be ripe again for drought-loving pests to emerge.
The pest injures corn most often during the VE through V5 growth stages. Timing foliar insecticide applications is critical. They are only effective when the larvae migrate and are exposed to the pesticide.
Be on the lookout for this mother of clones.
Here’s one way to know whether you work with a reputable seed company. Along with that, it’s time to put out lures and traps for various pests, including wireworms, armyworms and voles.