Attention, Corn and Soybean Producers! A fierce and voracious invader is on the move, wreaking havoc in the eastern parts of our state. Meet the Japanese beetle, a menacing insect that's causing serious concerns for farmers like you.
In the last couple of weeks, adult Japanese beetles have been on a feeding frenzy, targeting fresh corn silks right at the crucial time of pollination shed. With insatiable appetites, these beetles can gnaw through silks at an alarming rate, potentially crippling pollination. The threat is intensified when multiple beetles converge on a single ear, rapidly consuming the delicate silks.
But that's not all - these marauders also have a taste for young, succulent soybean leaves and pods. While soybeans can endure up to 50-60% defoliation during vegetative stages, the damage can still be a concern, especially if it occurs in concentrated areas.
Japanese beetles aren't just picky eaters; they have an expansive host range. They can indulge in the nectar and pollen of various flowers and even target fruits such as pears, apples, and grapes. Their attraction to multiple crops puts an additional burden on farmers across the region.
As they migrate westward, Japanese beetles are becoming a growing menace, making their presence felt in regions as far as Saline and Republic counties. Farmers in the affected areas are urged to stay vigilant and monitor their fields closely. These pests tend to congregate on the side of the field closest to where the white grubs (the larvae) fed on the roots of various plants.
We must act now to safeguard our crops from these invaders. Keep an eye on your fields, employ monitoring techniques, and take proactive measures to protect your corn and soybean crops from the onslaught of the Japanese beetles.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-songdech17
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Corn, Soybeans