Insect Update

Soybean aphids are now being reported across Nebraska. Confirmed reports have come in from Lancaster, Saunders, Butler, Dixon, and Buffalo counties and other reports from Pierce County (soon to be checked out). Aphid numbers are very low (often only 1 or 2 aphids found in a field), but bear watching. The basic threshold is 250 aphids/plant with populations increasing. The aphid likes moderate temps (70s and low to mid 80s) so our forecast for temps in the 90s should slow (or stop) development of the populations, however, the insect is new to Nebraska so don't rely on weather. If they have not started, farmers should start scouting their fields for this insect now. See newsletter #7 on how to manage soybean aphids. Our NebFact on the aphid (Extension publication, Soybean Aphid Management in Nebraska , NF04-599) is at http://ianrpubs.unl.edu/insects/nf599.htm and at your local Extension office, insecticide info at http://entomology.unl.edu/fldcrops/pestipm.htm#Item5 . Going through the Entomology Department site will also get you the info: http://entomology.unl.edu/

Western bean cutworms are laying eggs and scouts should be looking for the egg masses. Western counties generally have larger populations of western bean cutworms. See newsletter #11 for management information on this insect.

Potato leafhoppers may be showing up in alfalfa fields. Use a net to detect the presence of leafhoppers and stay ahead of the game. See newsletter #10 on how to scout and manage potato leafhoppers.