In his weekly Call of the Land interview Alberta Agriculture pest management specialist says Scott Meers now is the time to start watching the swather and cutter bar for insects to get an idea of whether they will be a problem next year.
While conditions will still determine numbers and this year’s lygus populations don’t influence next year’s, Meers says flea beetles in particular are important to monitor.
“If you’re seeing lots while swathing, that’s a big risk for next year.”
Grasshopper numbers may also indicate where hot spots may need control next year.
