Insects: Other forages

Part 2, Section 6: Forages Pest Management

Forages Pest Management

INSECTS

Other Forages

Potato leafhoppers may be a problem on new seedlings of birdsfoot trefoil. Potato leafhopper populations of 10 nymphs and adults in 10 sweeps of an insect net justify control measures on new seedings. On established stands, spittlebugs and potato leafhoppers are common but are usually not abundant enough to warrant control measures. Spray only when needed. An average of one spittlebug nymph per stem in early May justifies spray protection. A potato leafhopper population of 10 nymphs and adults in 10 sweeps of an insect net justifies control measures on established stands.

Insects normally are not a problem on new seedings of clovers seeded in winter grains or on a prepared seedbed. Reduced or no-till seedings of clover in grain stubble are apt to need spray protection from spittlebugs, particularly on red, alsike, and ladino clovers. Be sure to monitor such seedings from late April on to determine if a spittlebug problem exists. Also, the clover cyst nematode attacks red clover roots and crowns. It has been found only in Central Pennsylvania, and its distribution throughout the state is not known. Rotating fields out of clover for two or more years should keep this pest under control.

Insects normally are not a problem in grasses or small grain crops.

See Table 2.6-10 for quick reference to recommended insecticides for control of each insect pest, and Table 2.6-11 for rates, restrictions, and other information.