Insects are just one of several factors that can reduce emergence and/or injure plants in the spring. This handy chart from the University of Wisconsin will help pinpoint the possible culprit.

It isn’t easy to diagnose problems caused by seed corn maggot and others because damage isn’t always “text book.” Decisions need to be made based on symptoms shown in several plants, field histories, degree day accumulations and other criteria.

With spring planting just around the corner, growers of cereal crops should be considering their management approach towards wireworms and other insect pests, says Washington State University Extension.

Scott Meers, insect management specialist for Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, discusses the need for canola growers to keep an eye out for unwanted pests due to cooler soil temperatures being seen across western Canada.

Getting good stand establishment of wheat is the first hurdle for producers as they begin the new season.

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.

As corn begins to emerge, be alert to the potential damage that may be caused by early season insects.

Neglecting to scout for wireworm activity in a field could have serious consequences, including replanting.