Scouting Advised for Alfalfa and Clover Leaf Weevils April 20, 2017
Alfalfa weevils have been reported damaging alfalfa in north central Kansas and western Nebraska. As temperatures warm up, expect to see alfalfa weevil larvae in southern Nebraska and slightly later, in northern Nebraska. Even with the pressure of planting row crops, it is essential that producers growing high quality alfalfa hay make time to monitor fields for weevils now and over the next few weeks. See the article for a table of treatment thresholds for various alfalfa prices.
Which Bt Traits Do You Need to Purchase? March 24, 2017
When it comes to buying corn seed, one way to save money can be to ensure that you don't invest in GMO insect protection traits that you do not need for your particular farm or field. Which corn rootworm, western bean cutworm, or European corn borer traits do you need? This article can help you determine which of the nine types of Bt proteins might best serve your needs.
Cutworm Scouting Urged in Western Nebraska Wheat and Alfalfa March 23, 2017
Army cutworms are beginning to show up from central Kansas to Chappell. As wheat breaks dormancy, scouting for cutworms is advised from now through April to determine whether treatment is warranted.
Figure 1. Severe symptoms of wheat streak mosaic in volunteer wheat in sunflower stubble in Deuel County in November 2016. Such a field significantly increases the risk of infection of wheat in nearby fields. (Photo by Gary Hein)
Growers Urged to Keep a Watchful Eye for Wheat Viruses This Spring January 25, 2017
While the mild fall promoted wheat establishment, it also favored survival of wheat curl mites, the leading vector of several viruses common to Nebraska wheat. While much of the state's wheat crop entered winter in very good condition, growers are urged to scout for viruses this spring and assess yield potential of individual fields when making management decisions.
Wheat Insects in 2016 September 1, 2016
The wheat stem sawfly continues to be the predominant insect in wheat and has now been verified in all Nebraska Panhandle counties as well as counties in southwest and south central Nebraska.
Be on the Lookout for Sugarcane Aphids on Sorghum July 29, 2016
Nebraska grain sorghum producers are being advised to be on the lookout for sugarcane aphids. While this pest hasn't been a problem in Nebraska previously, it is in Kansas and moving north. The sugarcane aphid is light yellow to gray in color, with dark cornicles (“tail-pipes”) at the end of the body and dark tarsi (feet). Adult aphids can be winged or wingless.
Begin Scouting for Western Bean Cutworm Eggs in Corn July 8, 2016
The first western bean cutworm moths were captured in University of Nebraska-Lincoln black light traps June 23 at Clay Center, June 27 at North Platte, and June 30 at Scottsbluff. Flights are currently increasing, particularly in North Platte. Scouting should be underway across much of the state.
Using Degree-Days to Predict Western Bean Cutworm Flights June 24, 2016
Accumulated degree-days offer a proven means for estimating when to scout for insects, including the western bean cutworm. Here's how to estimate insect growth and recommended dates to start scouting for WBC at 14 Nebraska sites.