Crop Diseases Confirmed By PPDC Sept. 27-Oct. 5

Oct 09, 2017

By Kyle Broderick

The Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic will be working at partial capacity October 12-19 due to my wedding out of state. Plant samples may still be submitted, but turnaround time will be delayed. All samples submitted to the clinic during this time will be stored under refrigerated conditions to maintain quality. I will return to the office October 19. Thanks in advance for your patience.

The following diseases were reported in samples submitted to the UNL Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab September 27 to October 5, 2017

Figure 1. Reporting districts

Soybean

East District – Cercospora leaf blight

Southeast District – Anthracnose, charcoal rot, Fusarium crown rot

Corn

East District – Anthracnose stalk rot, Fusarium stalk rot

Central District – Anthracnose stalk rot, Physoderma brown spot, Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV)

Hops

East District – Downy mildew

Alfalfa

East District – Alfalfa rust, Cercospora leaf spot, Fusarium crown rot

Source: unl.edu

Video: Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

The predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus is an effective natural enemy of various species of spider mites, including the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). As a key player in biological pest control, this predator helps growers protect their crops sustainably.

How does Neoseiulus californicus work?

•Specializes in targeting the larval and nymphal stages of spider mites.

•Also consumes spider mite eggs, ensuring population control.

•Detects prey through webbing and leaf damage rather than sight.

•Feeds by sucking out the contents of its prey.

Why use Neoseiulus californicus for spider mite control?

•Highly adaptable to different environments, including warm and dry conditions.

•Works as both a preventive and curative solution for spider mite infestations.

•Complements other predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, for integrated pest management (IPM).

•A natural, sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.