Field Crop Insect Guide Helps with Identification, Insect Behavior and Management

Jul 25, 2023

By Erin Hodgson and Adam Sisson

Crop farmers, agronomists and others who scout crops for insect injury can gain new insight through the latest version of Field Crop Insects.

First published in 2012, the latest edition became available in print from the Iowa State University Extension Store in July 2023.

Field Crop Insects provides detailed descriptions and photos of more than 50 pest and beneficial insects found in Iowa and information on insect life cycle, crop injury, scouting and management options.

“This new compendium has some important updates for field crop insects in Iowa,” said Erin Hodgson, professor in entomology and extension specialist in entomology at Iowa State. “It includes some new pests since the first edition and highlights common alfalfa pests now, too. It is a valuable resource for new farmers and agronomists, and for those who regularly scout crops.”

Insect pests reduce yields in Iowa’s crop fields every year and are responsible for grain, seed and forage quality reductions.

Many insects injure multiple field crops, and the choices made during one season can impact losses during future seasons.

Important interactions exist among insect pests, plant pathogens and weeds. New technologies are continually emerging, and insect genetics, behavior and distribution can change over time. Therefore, looking at insect issues from a holistic viewpoint is important, considering both short-term pest management needs and long-term farm resiliency.

“Field Crop Insects provides a practical and informative look at the different kinds of insects Iowa’s farmers encounter,” said Adam Sisson. “We explain how to identify insect pests, and then we provide further information about insect behavior, scouting and management basics when applicable.”

The publication can be purchased in single copy printed editions for $8, digital pdfs for $5 or bundles of 25 printed copies for $6 per copy.

Development of this guide was supported by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Iowa State University Integrated Pest Management Program and the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Source : iastate.edu

Video: Dr. Emerson Nafziger: Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates for Corn

The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Emerson Nafziger from the University of Illinois breaks down decades of nitrogen research. From the evolution of N rate guidelines to how soil health and hybrid genetics influence nitrogen use efficiency, this conversation unpacks the science behind smarter fertilization. Improving how we set nitrogen fertilizer rates for rainfed corn is a key focus. Discover why the MRTN model matters more than ever, and how shifting mindsets and better data can boost yields and environmental outcomes. Tune in now on all major platforms!

"The nitrogen that comes from soil mineralization is the first nitrogen the plant sees, and its role is underestimated."

Meet the guest:

Dr. Emerson Nafziger is Professor Emeritus of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with degrees in agronomy from Ohio State, Purdue, and Illinois. His research has focused on nitrogen rate strategies and crop productivity. He co-developed the Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN) model, which is widely used across the Midwest. His research spans N response trials, hybrid interactions, crop rotation effects, and yield stability.