Wheat stem sawfly fall scouting

Sep 12, 2023

Harvest is the perfect timing to look for wheat stem sawfly larvae in the stems. The larvae, feeding on pith inside of wheat stems, affects crop yield and quality. Tip for scouting is pulling wheat plants, splitting the stems open and looking for an S-shaped larva. Pay closer attention to the areas that seem lodged, or have stems completely broken off above ground.

Refer to the risk maps from previous years for the general risks in your area.

Learn more about wheat stem sawfly scouting, life cycle and management here.

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Video: Wisconsin Corn and Soybean Weed Management Updates and Considerations for 2026 and Beyond

Dr. Rodrigo Werle, associate professor and extension weed scientist, UW–Madison, shares the latest updates and future considerations for corn and soybean weed management in Wisconsin. This presentation covers herbicide resistance trends in waterhemp, including newly confirmed cases of HPPD and S-metolachlor resistance, and emphasizes the importance of residual herbicides and strategic tank mixes for consistent control. Rodrigo also introduces upcoming technologies like Vyconic soybeans and new herbicide products, discusses integrated weed management strategies such as planting green with cover crops, and highlights practical recommendations for 2026 and beyond.

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