–by Dr. Jeff Whitworth, Dr. Holly Schwarting and JR Ewing
Worms (fall armyworms and armyworms) are still active in wheat and can be for another month, depending upon the weather. If growing conditions are good, the wheat should be able to outgrow feeding caused by small worms. Large worms have probably caused most of their feeding damage already, and hopefully, won’t be able to pupate, emerge as adults, lay eggs and have those eggs hatch again this fall. Winter grain mites may cause some concern in the next month or so, especially under dry conditions. However, insecticide applications are rarely warranted or impact next year’s yield. Again, good growing conditions will mitigate winter grain mite feeding damage.