Monitor Soybean for Defoliating Insects

Jul 16, 2019

By Adam Varenhorst

Insects to Watch For

While scouting soybean this week I noticed quite a few defoliating insects that were present in the field. So far, the feeding injury is minimal, but it is a reminder that we need to be diligent in monitoring leaves for defoliation and fields for these insect pests.

The insects that I was noticing the most were grasshopper nymphs (Figure 1), early instar green cloverworm caterpillars (Figure 2) and thistle caterpillars (Figure 3 and Figure 4).

Figure 1. Grasshopper nymphs feeding on soybean leaves.

Figure 2. Green cloverworm caterpillar. Notice the three abdominal prolegs.

Figure 3. Rolled soybean leaves that are defoliated.

Figure 4. Thistle caterpillar on soybean.

Scouting Strategy

The easiest way to scout for these pests is to monitor fields for defilation as there are multiple pests present. For soybean, the threshold for defoliation is an average of 30% defoliation prior to flowering and an average of 20% defoliation after flowering has begun. In South Dakota, there are some soybean that have begun to flower and these fields should be monitored closely for defoliating insect pests. If defoliation threshold are reached please refer to the 2019 South Dakota Pest Management Guide: Soybeans for a list of labeled insecticides. Always refer to labels for rates.

Source: sdsu.edu

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.