For the past 5 years, we have evaluated insecticides for managing soybean aphids. The most recent report can be found at our website www.soybeanaphid.info. After applying insecticides as part of our 2009 insecticide evaluation, Erin and I discuss some issues to consider when selecting an insecticide
For the week of August 3, 2009, Drs. Hodgson and O'Neal discuss scouting reports from the previous week indicating increases in aphid populations. In our longest podcast to date we discuss several issues growers should consider with regard to spraying insecticide for soybean aphids, including the potential for spider mite outbreaks.
For the week of July 27, 2009, Drs. Erin Hodgson and Matt O'Neal review reports and data on soybean aphid populations from Iowa and the midwest. Although large populations can be found, many growers are reporting low populations with less than 50% of the plants infested with aphids. Also, Erin discusses reports of soybean defoliation by insect pests that are not aphids.
For the week of July 20, 2009, Drs. Erin Hodgson and Matt O'Neal discuss the state of aphid populations in Iowa. Aphids are now well established in many fields but at low populations. We discuss factors that can contribute to the likelihood of an outbreak. Also, Erin and Matt make a joke about aphid perspiration.
In this edition, Dr. Erin Hodgson is introduced. She is the new assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at ISU with extension and research responsibilities focused on corn and soybean production. Dr. Hodgson's Ph.D. was spent studying the soybean aphid and how best to scout for it. She describes some of the work she is doing this summer, helping growers manage insect pests in soybean fields.
This is the first in a series of podcasts about the soybean aphid, an invasive pest of soybeans found throughout the midwest. Return to this podcast, hosted by Dr. Matt O'Neal for updates on the occurrence, management and biology of this important pest
