Protect Future Wheat Yields: Control the Volunteer Green Bridge
August 2, 2017
Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) problems have been extensive throughout the western Great Plains this year, significantly reducing the yield potential of many fields. A critical key in managing this threat in the next crop is elimination of volunteer wheat. Tillage or chemical weed control should occur at least one month before planting to allow host plants time to dry up and cease being a host.
Why Control of Volunteer Wheat is Critical to Protecting 2018 Yields
July 13, 2017
Timely control of volunteer wheat and other weeds is key to managing yield loss risk in your 2018 crop. Yield-limiting risk factors affected by weed control include wheat streak mosaic and other diseases, insects (wheat stem sawfly and disease vectors), moisture loss, and increased weed seed production.
Scouting and Treatment Recommendations for Western Bean Cutworm
July 11, 2017
Scouting is urged for Western bean cutworm in corn as moth flights are active and particularly heavy in south central Nebraska this week. This article includes trapping reports and recommendations for scouting and treatment.
Using Degree-Day Models to Predict Western Bean Cutworm Flights
June 15, 2017
Learn how degree-days are calculated and used to predict insect development and specifically, what they indicate for the timing of western bean cutworm development in Nebraska this year.
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.