Aphid numbers remain behind those of last year, although trap captures are slightly increasing, reports Dr. Ian MacRae, professor and extension entomologist at the University of Minnesota-Crookston.
"We started to see our first grain aphids and some other species, like thistle aphids, are starting to show up as well. Both Corn Leaf and English Grain aphids were recovered this week, indicating aphid movement from grains is starting. Thistle aphids and Buckthorn aphids were recovered from a couple of traps. Potato aphids and Cotton/Melon aphids are still present, and soybean aphids seem to be more widely distributed, although numbers are still low."
Overall, the seasonal aphid abundance remains relatively low. Early rains and wetter conditions than last year may be keeping populations down. So a good thing to this point, adds the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association.
To check out all the data at by Dr. MacRae, go to aphidalert.blogspot.com
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, North Dakota, Crops