June 4, 2010

Michael Rethwisch, Extension Educator in Butler County: Cutworms have been active in Butler County, necessitating insecticide applications to several corn fields. Cutworms that have been examined are primarily variegated cutworms, but some black cutworms are also present. Some wind damage from storms earlier this week caused leaf damage to corn.

Several alfalfa fields in the area were noted to have delayed green-up after cutting. An examination of plant roots found clover root curculio larvae. Slight feeding damage by alfalfa caterpillars in alfalfa fields was reported, but aphids were being held in check by a number of beneficial species (wasps, ladybird beetles). No potato leafhoppers have been noted in 2010. Alfalfa fields planted in late spring are weedy and will need herbicide applications.

Douglas Anderson, Extension Educator in Keith, Arthur, and Perkins counties:  Almost all our corn is the ground and at least half is up. Growers have been dodging storms and hail this week, leaving some dryland fields yet to be planted. Some wheat in the area took a hit from hail and cool night temperatures. Pastures look good and alfalfa is growing vigorously, with some being laid down.  We're seeing some smut and leafspot in wheat, but it hasn't been heavy.