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Although soybean aphid has been a relatively low threat this year, drought conditions have been a perfect storm for spider mites. We encourage people to scout fields now to fully protect yield. 

The 2013 season of podcasts begins with a short recap of pest activity in Iowa. 

Matt and Erin kick off the 2015 growing season with a summary of soybean planting progress in Iowa and predictions for soybean aphids this year. Also, they talk about recent publications on soybean seed treatments. 

This record-breaking podcast is the second of the day for Erin and Matt. We interview Dr. Jen White from the University of Kentucky to better understand how endosymbionts interact and influence insects, and ultimately how it can help with pest management. 

“Apres moi, le deluge” is legendary quote from King Louis XV of France. Allegedly he said this with regard to what would happen to France after his death; After me, the flood. 15 years after a reign that saw the loss of wars, territory etc., the French Revolution broke out.
 
Today on the soybean aphid podcast, we turn this title around (after the rains, us) to discuss the consequences of the June rains that have dropped as much as 6 inches in a 72 hour period. Unlike the terrible decisions of King Louis, these rains can have a benefit to farms by limiting the impact of some pests, especially those in the soil. However, the rains have made it difficult to get into fields for herbicide applications.
 
We discuss the rain, its impact on pests, and the upcoming Pollinator Festival at Rieman Gardens in Ames this Saturday June, 20.

Also, help us come up with a new name for out podcast. Send your suggestions to Matt at oneal at iastate.edu and/or Erin at ewh at iastate.edu.