With wheat planting beginning, it is wise to consider two insect pest concerns for this fall crop: Hessian fly and aphids.

The recent wet weather in much of Kansas has caused volunteer wheat to emerge and grow rapidly. Wet soil conditions may keep producers out of the fields for an extended period, making it even more difficult than usual to control the volunteer. That’s no excuse to just let it go, however. To protect the state’s 2013/14 wheat crop that will be planted this fall, the volunteer wheat must be controlled.

Corn growers need to scout their fields to determine wireworm populations before planting so they don't miss the optimum treatment window, a Purdue Extension entomologist says. Wireworms, or click beetle larvae, feed on corn seed germ and may prevent plants from sprouting. The pest becomes active when soil temperatures warm into the upper 40s.

University of Illinois researchers identified the top pathogens, pests, and weeds affecting soybean production in a recent article in the journal Food Security.

Lately I've received quite a few emails and calls regarding the potential impact of this season's late planting on corn and soybean insects.