Source summary
What this podcast covered
Stink Bug Surge in Rice
Stink bug populations in Arkansas rice are reportedly high, particularly in fields that are beginning to head. Farmers are encouraged to monitor these fields closely and consider treatment options to mitigate potential damage.
Soybean Management Challenges
In soybeans, the threshold for stink bug treatment doubles at the R6 stage, which is critical for farmers to note as they approach harvest. Effective management strategies will be essential to protect yields.
Rainfall Effects on Pest Populations
Recent rainfall has led to a crash in looper populations in some areas, while others continue to struggle with high numbers. This variability highlights the importance of localized pest management.
Emerging Threats: Salt Marsh Caterpillars
Salt marsh caterpillars are becoming a significant concern for soybean farmers, as they can cause substantial defoliation. Effective control measures will be necessary to manage this new threat.
Key takeaways
5 things worth knowing
- 01
Stink bug populations are rising in rice, with counts reaching 30-70 per 10 sweeps.
- 02
Farmers should consider treatment options as rice heads begin to emerge.
- 03
In soybeans, stink bug thresholds double at R6, prompting urgent management.
- 04
Rainfall has led to a crash in looper populations in some areas, while others remain high.
- 05
Salt marsh caterpillars are becoming a significant concern, requiring effective control measures.
Source figures at a glance
At a glance
What the podcast covered, in 4 signals
Pests
Rising numbers
Stink bugs
Counts in rice and soybeans are increasing.
Crops
Critical stage
Rice heading
Farmers need to monitor for stink bugs.
Management
Urgent decisions
Soybean treatment
Thresholds double at R6 stage.
Weather
Impact observed
Looper populations
Rainfall has caused some populations to crash.
Questions & answers
Quick answers
What should I do if I see high stink bug numbers in my rice?
Monitor the fields closely and consider treatment options, especially if the rice is beginning to head.
How do I manage stink bugs in soybeans?
Be aware that the treatment threshold doubles at the R6 stage, so timely management is crucial.
What impact does rainfall have on pest populations?
Rainfall can lead to crashes in certain pest populations, such as loopers, but may also allow others to thrive.
What are salt marsh caterpillars and how do I control them?
Salt marsh caterpillars can cause significant defoliation; effective products include Intrepid and Besiege.