Insects can be a major cause of loss to wheat producers as a result of direct feeding or as vectors, or carriers, of disease. Insect infestations can range from local to statewide in scope.
See page links to the right for insect summaries and control recommendations located in The Insect Almanac from UNL Extension Entomology. See below for additional links to NebGuides and CropWatch articles.
Aphids
- Cereal Aphids (G1284)
Identification and general discussion of the cereal aphid species most commonly found in Nebraska small grains, corn, sorghum and millet. - Insecticide Recommendations for Control of Aphids in Wheat
Wheat Stem Sawfly
The wheat stem sawfly was originally found in Banner, Morrill, and Scotts Bluff Counties in the early 1990s. However, during the past 3 years the geographic range of this insect has expanded to include the entire panhandle of Nebraska. This insect can have a devastating impact on wheat with as much as 80% of an infested area suffering from lodging.
Learn more at:
- Wheat Stem Sawfly pest profile in Myfields.org by the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)
- Wheat Stem Sawfly in Wheat, a webcast by UNL Extension Entomologist Jeff Bradshaw for the Plant Management Network
Hessian Fly
- Hessian Fly on Wheat (G1923)
This NebGuide describes the lifecycle and management of the Hessian fly, including risk reduction with planting date, volunteer control and resistant varieties.
Cinch Bug
- Chinch Bug Management (G806)
The life cycle and control of the chinch bug is discussed, with descriptions of possible management options. - Insecticides for Control of Cinch Bug in Wheat
Grasshoppers
- A Guide to Grasshopper Control in Cropland (G1627)
Grasshoppers primarily damage wheat, alfalfa, soybeans and corn but can feed and seriously damage almost any crop, tree, shrub and/or home garden during years of high population. This guide provides information on the life cycle of the grasshopper and cropland damage control measures. - Defending New Winter Wheat and Alfalfa Fields from Grasshoppers, CropWatch 8/10/10