Central South Dakota has recently witnessed reports of lodged wheat plants, raising concerns about the damaging impact of Hessian fly infestations. Notably, these infested plants exhibited brown, flax-seed-like pupae near the base of the plant, indicating the presence of Hessian fly pupae.
As the larvae of these flies feed on the wheat plants after stem elongation, they weaken the stems, leading to reduced yields and harvesting challenges. It is crucial to address these infestations promptly, as they could pose a risk for fall 2023 as well.
5 Management Strategies to Mitigate Hessian Fly Infestations
Resistant Cultivars:
Utilizing resistant wheat cultivars is an effective strategy to suppress Hessian fly populations. With 34 identified Hessian-fly-resistant genes, farmers have options to choose from. However, to prevent the development of resistance, it is essential to rotate cultivars in a systematic manner.
Fly-Free Dates:
It is advisable to avoid planting until after the fly-free date, as it determines the cessation of Hessian fly activity during the fall. These dates may vary due to environmental factors. In South Dakota, the estimated fly-free dates are September 30 for the northern half and October 15 for the southern half, based on North Dakota's fly-free dates.
Crop Rotation:
Implementing crop rotation practices can be highly effective in managing Hessian fly infestations. Given the limited host range of Hessian flies, it is crucial to avoid consecutive wheat plantings in areas where Hessian fly problems have been previously observed.
Weed Removal:
Prior to planting wheat, it is essential to remove any volunteer wheat or "green bridges". This practice helps eliminate potential egg-laying sites and reduces overwintering populations of Hessian flies, contributing to a more pest-free environment.
To protect wheat fields in central South Dakota from Hessian fly infestations, farmers must adopt a proactive approach. By understanding the threat, identifying Hessian fly pupae, and implementing effective management strategies like resistant cultivars, fly-free dates, crop rotation, and weed removal, they can ensure optimal yields and successful harvests while minimizing the impact on their livelihoods.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Wheat