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Insects are causing problems in alfalfa fields

An extension forage specialist says there are more reports of insect damage in alfalfa fields this spring.

Karla Hernandez with the South Dakota State University Extension tells Brownfield the wetter than normal spring brought more pest problems.  “It’s been wet and a little bit warm so that’s bringing a lot of insects into the alfalfa.  Alfalfa weevils and potato leafhoppers are coming a little bit earlier compared to last year.”

Hernandez says the alfalfa weevils have already caused problems in much of South Dakota.  “Here in South Dakota, areas of Brookings down south, Sioux Falls, Yankton, they’re starting to get a pretty decent infestation of those weevils, yes.”

And, she’s getting reports about another pest. “This year, we hear about the spider mites in alfalfa, and those guys like to come out with really warm temps but dry weather.”

Hernandez says controlling the insects and preventing further crop damage depends on how long until harvest time.  “If you’re really far from your harvest date or estimated harvest date, you should go ahead and spray it because you want to control it so they don’t take over your yield and your quality.  Now if you are very close to your harvest, it’s just better to cut it off.”

Hernandez suggests weekly scouting of fields because the number of insects can change quickly.

 

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