Though Japanese beetle numbers and their defoliation to soybean typically get lots of mid-season attention, their pressures seemed to be lower this year.
Though Japanese beetle numbers and their defoliation to soybean typically get lots of mid-season attention, their pressures seemed to be lower this year.
Grubs of the Asiatic garden beetle have been recently found damaging corn seedlings in northern Indiana counties.
In speaking with producers, it is obvious that soybean defoliation (aka, leaf removal), especially by Japanese beetle, irritates them.
About a month ago, we published an article asking readers for input on what pests they were seeing and what levels of economic damage may be out there in corn and soybean fields.
The post-pollination scuttlebutt overheard in coffee shops throughout Indiana during mid- to late summer often revolves around the potential for severe stress that might reduce kernel set or kernel size in neighborhood cornfields.
As folks get out to inspect corn ears, especially in northern counties where western bean cutworm is a greater concern, they will find “little black bugs,” especially where kernels are damaged. Their presence is in response to previous damage to kernels, which includes insect and/or bird feeding, hail, etc. In addition, hybrids with short ear husks seem to be more prone to exposing kernels, making easy access for rootworm and Japanese beetles to compromise ear tip kernels while feeding on silks. These small, opportunistic insects are feeding on decaying kernels and subsequent molds, NOT directly damaging the crop. They are simply fulfilling their niche in the cycle of life, “clean up in Aisle 3.”
This season’s extended fall has allowed many plants and insects remain growing and active.
Pollination in corn is the act of transferring pollen from the tassels to the emerged silks of the ear.
Some areas of Indiana remain very dry and concerns of spider mites moving into fields from parched field/road sides increase.
As many have asked, or made note, insect pest numbers seem lower this season. No surprise that the moisture and temperature extremes have had an impact, especially those insects depending on the soil to complete at least a portion of their life cycle.
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