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PodcastArkansas Row CropsJul 3, 2024

What Pest Pressures Are Emerging for Arkansas Rice and Beans?

Emerging pest pressures in Arkansas rice and beans could impact yields this season.

AI-generated source brief by USFarms.ag, based on Arkansas Row Crops. How our briefs are made

Source published Jul 3, 2024. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

pest managementrice stink bugsarmywormsspider mitesinsecticide applications

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Current Pest Pressures

Rice fields are experiencing a range of stink bug infestations, with some reports indicating numbers as high as 50 per head. Growers are advised to treat fields with higher populations to prevent yield loss.

Armyworm Concerns

While armyworms have not been widely reported in rice, they are appearing in bean fields. Early detection and treatment are essential to manage these pests effectively.

Spider Mite Management

Spider mites are becoming more prevalent, particularly in Northeast Arkansas. The use of abamectin has shown promise, but growers must allow time for the product to take effect before reapplying.

Weather Considerations

With scattered showers expected, the timing of insecticide applications is critical. Growers should consider using adjuvants to improve rain fastness and protect their treatments.

Scouting and Treatment Strategies

Regular scouting is essential as pest populations can change rapidly. Growers should be prepared to adjust their management strategies based on the latest observations and pest dynamics.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Rice fields are seeing varying levels of stink bug infestations, with treatment recommended for those above 12 per head during flowering.

  2. 02

    Armyworms are present in beans, necessitating close monitoring and potential treatment as populations increase.

  3. 03

    Spider mites are on the rise, particularly in Northeast Arkansas, with abamectin showing effectiveness but requiring time to work.

  4. 04

    Scattered showers in the forecast may impact the timing and effectiveness of insecticide applications, highlighting the need for careful planning.

  5. 05

    Growers should be vigilant about pest pressures as the season progresses, especially with the upcoming 4th of July moth flight.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Pests

Emerging

Rice stink bugs

High infestations reported in some rice fields.

Monitoring

Critical

Armyworms

Presence noted in beans, requiring close observation.

Insecticides

Timing

Application strategies

Weather impacts effectiveness; plan accordingly.

Crop Health

At risk

Spider mites

Increasing populations noted, especially in Northeast Arkansas.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What should I do if I find high numbers of stink bugs in my rice?

If you find stink bug populations above 12 per head during flowering, it's advisable to treat those fields to prevent yield loss.

How can I manage armyworms in my bean fields?

Monitor your bean fields closely for armyworms and be prepared to treat if populations increase significantly.

What insecticides are effective against spider mites?

Abamectin has shown effectiveness against spider mites, but it requires time to work, so be patient before reapplying.

How does weather affect my insecticide applications?

Scattered showers can impact the effectiveness of insecticides, so consider using adjuvants to improve rain fastness.

Why is scouting important during this time of year?

Regular scouting helps identify pest pressures early, allowing for timely management decisions that can protect crop yields.

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