Source: Red River Farm Network
With the recent unseasonalby warm weather, the sugarbeet root maggot development is far ahead of the norm in the Red River Valley. North Dakota State University extension entomologist Mark Boetel expects peak activity to be seen one week ahead of the average.
The biggest concern for severe infestation in North Dakota is in the Grand Forks, Merrifield, St. Thomas and Thompson areas. For the Minnesota side of the border, Boetel is focused on East Grand Forks and Euclid. Those in a moderate- to high-risk area who are equipped to put on a post-granular insecticide, Boetel says, “They can put that on anytime between now and up to five days before their anticipated peak in fly activity.” A post-emergence spray insecticide is another option.
In addition, Boetel reports springtail issues in the newly emerged beets in the Hillsboro area and cutworm development in the Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative area.