NDSU Cropping Systems Specialist Anitha Chirumamilla is evaluating seed treatments and foliar insecticide applications for the canola flea beetle. “The most effective treatment was seed treatment with multiple active ingredients followed by a foliar spray application ten days or 14 days after the seed treatment.” Thanks to a cool and wet spring, canola flea beetle pressure is lower this year. Chirumamilla is quick to remind small grains farmers to continue scouting for cereal aphids and grasshoppers. “In some areas where the crop is already headed and turning color, you don’t have to worry about them, but in this part of the country, planting so late, if you still have wheat or small grains in the flowering stage, watch out for cereal aphids.”
