Tick Prevention Worth the Effort
August 2, 2016
It's tick season in Nebraska and time to create a barrier between you and these disease-transmitting pests. See tips for avoiding their bite and what to do if you find one on your body. Also see photos to aid in identification.
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.
Decision Making for Soybean Defoliating Insects
July 15, 2016
July is when growers start to see a variety of defoliators in Nebraska soybean fields. It's easy to overestimate the amount of defoliation and soybean plants can compensate for some leaf area loss. This article describes how to assess defoliation and provides basic treatment thresholds.
Soybean Defoliation Worksheet
July 13, 2016
While soybean defoliation, the most common injury to soybeans from insects, can look devastating, soybean plants can often compensate for the leaf loss. When making pest-management decisions, crucial considerations are the size of the remaining leaf canopy and the soybeans' growth stage.
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.
Scout for Emerging Western Corn Rootworm Beetles
July 5, 2016
Western corn rootworm beetles began emerging in southeast and south central Nebraska during the last week in June. Beetles typically emerge somewhat later in northeastern and western Nebraska. Scouting should be underway to determine field presence and possible need for treatment.
Japanese Beetles Emerging; Identification Key to Management
July 1, 2016
Japanese beetle adults are beginning to emerge in eastern Nebraska and have been reported feeding in corn and soybean. Here's how to differentiate them from the look-alike sand chafers and treatment thresholds to determine when treatment is recommended.
Scout Field Borders for Grasshoppers
June 30, 2016
Populations of immature grasshoppers are being reported in areas bordering crop fields in several parts of eastern Nebraska. If these grasshopper species are one of the four major species that are likely to infest cropland, control may be warranted. Check here are scouting guide and treatment thresholds and recommendations.