Investigators: Dr. Adam J. Varenhorst, Dr. Matthew E. O'Neal, Dr. Michael T. McCarville Read more about Determining the impact of induced susceptibility on avirulent soybean aphid populations on resistant soybean
Our extension program is led by Dr. Erin Hodgson, and Dr. O’Neal and many lab members also participate in programs throughout the year. We are focused on delivering research-based information to a variety of clientele. Our group serves farmers, crop consultants, agricultural professionals and other university/extension personnel. Most of our programs are within the state of Iowa, but we travel throughout the Midwest to deliver content. Read more about Extension
The use of insecticides to control the soybean aphid has become a predominant management practice for growers. Before the confirmation of the soybean aphid in 2000, less than 0.1% of soybean was treated with insecticides. However, soybean aphid management has resulted in a 130-fold increase of insecticide applications in less than a decade. An estimated 1,400% increase of Iowa soybean acres were treated with a foliar insecticide in 2009 compared to 2000. Growers are also increasing the use of insecticidal seed treatments to control early-season establishment of insects on soybean. Read more about Insecticide Evaluations
On a special episode of the podcast, we are visited by Dr. Donald Lewis who asks; "Will the soybean aphid outbreak bring more lady beetles". This hard-hitting question is answered, to the best of their ability by Matt and Erin.
The lady beetle in question, is the multi-colored Asian lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis. This is a beneficial insect in soybean fields but a pest in our homes.
We are getting close to the end of the season and soybean aphids have exceeded the threshold level in northern Iowa. Erin has come back from spraying research plots to share with us updates on timing, product choice and assessing the need for an insecticide during this aphid outbreak.
Also, Matt is going to be interviewed by WHO-TV this Friday. Look for a segment either Friday nite or during the weekend (23-25 Aug) about conserving bees.And finally, this episode is dedicated to Robert Pettis, our #1 fan.
