By Scout Nelson
Recent rainfall in south-central Kansas has led to a notable rise in pillbug populations, a pest more commonly known by its nickname, Roly Poly.
According to Kansas State University's crop entomologist, Jeff Whitworth, these creatures are crustaceans, related more closely to crayfish and lobsters than insects.
"They must have free moisture to breathe; they breathe by means of gills," explained Whitworth. This requirement for moisture is why pillbugs thrive particularly in no-till or reduced tillage fields that retain water.
Pillbugs can be reproduce rapidly, with each female potentially laying over 100 eggs per reproductive cycle, and up to three generations occurring each year. These pests primarily target soybean fields, where their hatching aligns with the planting season.
"As soybean seeds germinate, pillbugs start feeding on them. They will clip off the plant causing it to die," Whitworth noted.
Managing pillbugs in no-till fields can be challenging. Traditional foliar sprays, while effective in other settings, often fail to reach the pillbugs concealed under the soil and organic matter.
Whitworth suggests that altering planting schedules might be a more effective strategy. "Change your planting date," he advises farmers. By shifting the planting time, farmers can avoid peak pillbug activity periods, thereby reducing damage.
Despite a common belief among growers, pillbugs do not exclusively target soybeans; they are attracted to any succulent green plants, indicating their broader impact on various crops.
Farmers are encouraged to consider integrated pest management strategies to mitigate the risks posed by these adaptable pests, ensuring the health and productivity of their crops.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-tlillico
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Weather