News

Rootworms could be problematic in 2013

Parts of Illinois saw increased rootworm pressure in 2012, something that hasn’t been much of a problem in recent years.  Mike Toohill, staff agronomist for Diversified Services explains why.  “From 2009-2011 we have very wet springs, which killed a lot of the rootworm larvae before they could attach to the roots,” he says.

Toohill tells Brownfield the deep cracks left in the soil from the drought of 2012 could be problematic for some Illinois growers this year.  “Although it is pretty cold right now – most of the rootworm eggs are located below the freeze line,” he says.  “So right now rootworms are something Illinois growers are concerned about.  Especially northwest and western Illinois where some of the technologies had a rough go last year.”

So even with the recent string of cold days, Toohill says the cold weather isn’t likely impact rootworm populations in 2013.

Add Comment

Your email address will not be published.


 

Stay Up to Date

Subscribe for our newsletter today and receive relevant news straight to your inbox!