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PodcastArkansas Row CropsJun 28, 2024

What Pest Pressures Are Farmers Facing This Summer?

Farmers are encountering various pest pressures, including armyworms and plant bugs, affecting crops this summer.

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

Source published Jun 28, 2024. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

pest managementarmywormsplant bugsstink bugsweather impacts

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Current Pest Landscape

Farmers are currently dealing with various pests, including fall armyworms and plant bugs. The presence of these pests is particularly concerning as they can lead to significant crop damage if not managed properly.

Impact on Rice and Cotton

In rice fields, the movement of armyworms and weevils is being closely monitored. Meanwhile, cotton is seeing some plant bug activity, but it has not yet reached critical levels.

Weather Conditions

The ongoing hot and dry weather conditions are likely to exacerbate pest pressures. Farmers are advised to remain vigilant as these conditions can lead to increased pest activity.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Fall armyworms are moving into rice fields, requiring monitoring.

  2. 02

    Stink bug populations are present but not overwhelming at this time.

  3. 03

    Plant bugs are abundant in weedy areas but not heavily infesting cotton yet.

  4. 04

    Moth flights are expected to increase, potentially bringing more pests into crops.

  5. 05

    Hot, dry weather may exacerbate pest pressures, necessitating timely management.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Pests

Increasing pressure

Fall armyworms

Armyworms are moving into rice fields.

Pests

Present but manageable

Stink bugs

Stink bug populations are not overwhelming yet.

Pests

Abundant

Plant bugs

Plant bugs are found in weedy areas.

Weather

Hot and dry

Conditions

Hot, dry weather may worsen pest issues.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What should I look for in my rice fields?

Monitor for fall armyworms and weevils, especially in newly flooded areas.

Are stink bugs a concern right now?

Stink bug populations are present but not overwhelming at this time.

What can I do about plant bugs in my cotton?

Currently, plant bugs are abundant in weedy areas but not heavily infesting cotton yet.

How does the weather affect pest pressures?

Hot, dry weather can worsen pest issues, making timely management crucial.

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