Boosting populations of natural enemies such as Bracon cephi gives farmers a low-cost, sustainable way to reduce wheat stem sawfly losses without relying on insecticides that rarely work.
Tag Archives parasitoids
Wheat stem sawfly: how a harvest tweak can protect yields, preserve parasitoids
Stubble height of at least six inches can help make a significant sawfly enemy right at home
Going, not gone: Some hot spots remain for midge
Recent low wheat midge counts no guarantee the problem won't return
Wheat midge populations on the Prairies have been declining for the past few years, but a researcher specializing in insect pests says farmers need to remain vigilant about the threat they pose to crops. “My advice (to farmers) is don’t turn your back on wheat midge, even if you are in a (low level) green […] Read more
Predators and parasitoids – your bug buddies in the field
How to spot and protect beneficial bugs in your crops
When scouting for insects in your fields next year, it’s not only crop-devouring pests you should keep an eye out for. That’s because insect predators like ground beetles as well as parasitic wasps and flies can take a big chunk out of pest populations. “It’s important to recognize there are a lot of natural enemies […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
