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K-State Turf and Landscape Blog

Category: integrated pest management (IPM)

Sugarcane Beetle Causing Damage to Turfgrass in SE Kansas

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

By Raymond Cloyd, Professor and Extension Specialist in Horticultural Entomology/Plant Protection

We have received several inquiries from Southeast Kansas regarding black beetles causing damage to turfgrass. The black beetles are adults of the sugarcane beetle, Euetheola humilis (Burmeister) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). The sugarcane beetle is native to the USA and is also called the rough headed corn stalk beetle.

Sugarcane beetle adults are 1/2 of an inch (13 millimeters) long, black, with distinct punctures or indentations that extend along the length of the body (Figure 1). The front legs have four serrations that allow the adult to tunnel through the soil. Sugarcane beetle adults are active in spring and feed during the night. Adults are attracted to light sources at night. Sugarcane beetle adults walk across the turfgrass in the early morning. Adults tunnel into the soil and remain in the soil during the day, which allows them to avoid predators and exposure to direct sunlight. Sugarcane beetle overwinters as an adult in the soil and there is one generation per year.

In the spring, females can lay between 30 to 60 eggs in the soil during their lifespan and then die after laying eggs. Sugarcane beetle larvae emerge (eclose) from eggs after approximately 10 days, and are white grubs with a red head and six yellow legs. There are three larval instars (stages between each molt) with the third instar larvae 1-1/4 of an inch (32 millimeters) long. Larvae are located in or below the thatch layer.

Larvae and adults can damage turfgrass by feeding on the roots, stems, and leaves (blades). Sugarcane beetle adults cause damage to warm season turfgrasses, such as, bermudagrass and zoysiagrass associated with golf courses, home lawns, and sod farms. In addition, sugarcane beetle adults can damage tall fescue lawns. Adults can also damage turfgrass when tunneling through the soil. In addition, mammals including: armadillos, birds, moles, and raccoons can cause substantial damage to turfgrass when searching for sugarcane beetle larvae and adults.

Sugarcane beetle populations can be managed by properly irrigating and fertilizing turfgrass to maintain health and vigor, which can mitigate damage caused by sugarcane

beetle larvae and adults. Furthermore, turn off all lights in the area at night to avoid attracting adults.

Pyrethroid based insecticides can be applied to manage sugarcane beetle adult populations in turfgrass. Apply insecticides when adults are initially present in the spring. Insecticides are more effective against adults that just emerged from overwintering than adults that are present later in the season.

Commercial Pesticide Applicator Recertification Trainings Offered This Fall

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

The K-State Research and Extension Pesticide Safety and IPM Program will be hosting multiple commercial pesticide applicator recertification training opportunities this fall.

Date        Training and Category                                                 Location 

Oct 16      Ag Wildlife (1C)                                                         Hays
Oct 30      Right-of-Way, Industrial Weed, Noxious Weed (6, 7C, 9A) Wichita
Nov 1       Ag Plant (1A)                                                            Salina
Nov 6-7    Forestry, Ornamental, Turf, Interiorscape (2, 3A, 3B, 3C)  Virtual
Nov 28     Aquatics (5)                                                             Emporia

Registration may be mailed or completed online.

Call Frannie Miller with the Pesticide & IPM Program at (620) 241-1523 or email fmiller@ksu.edu for additional information regarding the above trainings.

Commercial applicators may obtain recertification training credits any time during their active three year certification period. Commercial applicators have until December 31 of the year of expiration to earn credits. It is the commercial applicator’s responsibility to obtain the required credits.

The renewal period will open in October of the year of expiration. Make sure your renewal application and recertification fees are received by KDA by the December 31 expiration date of their certification to maintain continuous certification. For those who attended complete training during their certification period, the application form and fees will be accepted for 30 days following the certification expiration date. If certification fees are not paid to KDA by January 30, the applicator will be required to take the examinations to restart the certification process.

Credits may be viewed through the commercial applicator’s KDA Portal account.

More opportunities to earn commercial pesticide applicator credits can be found on the KDA website at: https://portal.kda.ks.gov/PAF/PafTraining/TrainingEventList. If you have questions, please contact the KDA Pesticide & Fertilizer Program by e-mail at kda.pestfert@ks.gov or call 785-564-6688.

How to Protect Trees from Elm Leaf Beetles

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

By Maddy Rohr, K-State Research and Extension News Service

Prevent damage now by using insecticides, says K-State horticulture expert.

Managing plant pests is a common garden task, but Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini says using preventive methods in the fall also is important.

“There are typically two generations of elm leaf beetles each year,” Domenghini said. “They overwinter as adults and emerge from their protective shelters in early spring. As elm trees develop leaves, the beetles move in and females begin laying eggs.”

Young Elm Leaf Beetle larvae are dark-colored, hairy grubs. Older larvae are yellow with two long, dark stripes. Adult beetles have green and yellow stripes.

“Larvae hatch and spread throughout the tree to feed. Larvae reach maturity within four weeks and seek shelter to pupate,” Domenghini said. Larvae may travel to the bottom of the tree or in cracks of bark.

Domenghini said larvae cause most of the damage by skeletonizing leaves of elm trees. Adult beetles chew holes through the leaves resulting in a change of color to brown and dropping.

Preventive methods include several insecticides. Healthy trees that have not been greatly affected should not be sprayed in the fall.

Larvae and adult sprays include acephate (Acephate, Orthene), spinosad (Natural Guard Spinosad, Conserve, Captain Jack’s Dead Bug Brew, Monterey Garden Insect Spray), lambda cyhalothrin (Scimitar, Spectracide Triazicide).

Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens. The newsletter is available to view online or can be delivered by email each week.

Article originated from K-State Research and Extension News

Mimosa and Fall Webworm Damage in Trees Throughout Kansas

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

By Raymond Cloyd, Professor and Extension Specialist

 

Mimosa Webworm

Damage associated with mimosa webworm, Homadaula anisocentra, larvae/caterpillars is quite noticeable on honey locust, Gleditsia triacanthos, and mimosa, Albizia julibrissin, trees throughout Kansas.

Mimosa webworm caterpillars feeding on leaves

The larvae/caterpillars are 1/2 of an inch long when full–grown and move backward rapidly when disturbed.

Caterpillars’ web leaves together on the ends of branches. Webbing typically starts at the tops of trees and protects caterpillars from natural enemies (parasitoids and predators) and insecticide spray applications.


 

Mimosa webworm webbing on end of branch

Heavily infested trees are brown or scorched in appearance because the caterpillars skeletonize the leaf tissue. Caterpillars eventually leave trees using a silken strand before pupating. Mimosa webworm pupates in bark crevices or pupae are attached to structures (e.g. buildings). There are two generations per year in Kansas.

 

Mimosa webworm caterpillar feeding damage

It is too late to apply an insecticide this time of year when trees are heavily infested with webbing because the caterpillars are protected from insecticide spray applications inside the leaf webbing. However, next year, you can manage mimosa webworm caterpillar populations by applying an insecticide when the caterpillars are initially present and exposed to insecticide spray applications.

 


You can use insecticides that contain the following active ingredients: Bacillus
thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, spinosad, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and permethrin. Read the label of each product to ensure that “webworms” are listed. Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki and spinosad are stomach poisons so mimosa webworm caterpillars are killed after ingesting the spray solution on the leaf surface. High-volume spray applications are required so that the insecticide contacts the caterpillars or there are residues on the leaf surface.

Selective pruning, if possible, can quickly remove isolated or localized early infestations of mimosa webworm.

 

Fall Webworm

The fall webworm, Hyphantria cunea, second generation is now present throughout most of Kansas with nests present on trees, such as, hickory and walnut.

Fall webworm nest on walnut tree.

Fall webworm nests consists of silk webbing that encloses the ends of branches and leaves. Fall webworm larvae or caterpillars are pale-green, yellow to nearly white, with two black spots on each abdominal segment. Caterpillars are covered with long, white hairs.

 

 

Fall webworm nest on birch tree.

Fall webworm caterpillars feed on a wide-range of trees, including: birch, cherry, crabapple, elm, maples, hickory, pecan, mulberry, walnut, and willow. Fall webworm caterpillars, unlike caterpillars associated with the eastern tent caterpillar, Malacosoma americanum, remain within the enclosed nests and do not venture out to feed.

 

Close-up of fall webworm larvae.

Caterpillars consume leaves, resulting in branches with only webbing attached that contains fecal deposits (frass) or ‘caterpillar poop’. The nests will eventually dry-up as the caterpillars transition into pupae, with adults eventually eclosing (emerging) from the pupae later on in the growing season.

 

 

At this time of year, feeding by fall webworm caterpillars is not directly harmful to trees, especially larger trees. The most effective method of managing fall webworm infestations is to prune-out the nests that enclose the caterpillars, place into a plastic bag, and dispose of immediately. Insecticide spray applications are not be effective in managing fall webworm infestations because the caterpillars remain in the nests while feeding, which reduces exposure to spray residues. If insecticides need to be applied, for whatever reason, use high-volume spray applications that penetrate the protective nests, or use a rake to disrupt or open-up the nests so that insecticide sprays contact the caterpillars.

Articles originated from the Kansas State University Extension Entomology Newsletter

Japanese Beetle Activity

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

By Raymond Cloyd, Horticultural Entomology/Integrated Pest Management

Japanese beetle adults feeding on leaf

Japanese beetle, Popilla japonica, adults are present throughout Kansas feeding on many plants in landscapes and gardens, including: roses (Rosa spp), littleleaf linden (Tilia cordata), oak (Quercus spp.), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), crabapple (Malus spp.), grape (Vitis vinifera), and common garden canna (Canna x generalis).

The strategies to manage Japanese beetle adult populations are limited and have been for many years. The primary strategy involves spraying contact insecticides to kill the adults in order to reduce plant damage.

Japanese beetle adults are 3/8 to 1/2 of an inch long, metallic green with coppery-brown wing covers. There are approximately 14 white tufts of hair along the edge of the abdomen. Japanese beetle adults live up to 45 days feeding on plants over a four-to-six-week period. Adults feed on many horticultural plants including: trees, shrubs, vines, herbaceous annual and perennials, vegetables, fruits and grapes.

For more information including how to manage Japanese beetle adult populations, read the latest Kansas Insect Newsletter: https://entomology.k-state.edu/doc/extension-newsletters/2023/KSInsectNewsletter%2010.pdf

 

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pesticide Applications – What You Need to Know!

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

By Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator

There is a good deal of interest in using drones, also called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the application of pesticides. In our context, a drone is a small, remotely controlled fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft. A drone application might be appealing to individuals wanting to spray where it is not practical or desirable to use a traditional spray, or perhaps, for spot spraying.  However, applications are limited by the size of the payload the drone is able to carry and compliance and logistics for such applications can be challenging. Downdraft can affect the deposition of the product and cause off-target movement or volatilization. If you are an applicator who is considering using a drone for applications, here is some basic information regarding licenses that you need to know before you apply any pesticides.

Drone image, courtesy of Brett Bultemeier, University of Florida, Pesticide Information Office

First, any individual who will be operating a drone for pesticide applications shall have a current Remote Pilot Certification under title 14 of the Code of Regulations (14 CFR) 107 and meet all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements. This can be achieved by taking a Commercial Remote Pilot Training course or simply taking the exam at an approved testing center. The fee to schedule an examination is usually around $175. Drones shall be operated under the applicable FAA requirements and the necessary exemptions must be obtained according to the weight of the drone being flown. A Commercial Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate shall be obtained if the drone does not meet the requirements for exemption.

The applicator needs to provide the Kansas Department of Agriculture with the make, model, serial number (if applicable) and any other requested information related to the drone and submit a completed and signed application to apply pesticide products. Documentation is needed to confirm that each drone is properly registered with the FAA (FAA registration certificate) and the individual flying it has the proper certification (copy of remote pilot license).  The business making the applications also has to prove they have the proper certification (exemption/rule-making documentation, a Commercial Agricultural Aircraft Certificate) or has obtained the necessary exemptions to KDA.

Commercial pesticide applications via drones or unmanned aerial vehicle are only permitted in the following categories: Category 1: Agricultural Pest Control (1A: Agricultural Plant Pest Control, 1B: Agricultural Animal Pest Control, 1C: Wildlife Damage Control, 1D: Stump Treatment), Category 2: Forest Pest Control, Category 3: Ornamental and Turf Pest Control (3A: Ornamental Pest Control, 3B: Turf Pest Control), Category 5: Aquatic Pest Control, and Category 6: Right-of-Way Pest Control. The individual who is operating the drone during the pesticide application must be a certified applicator in the category that applies to the application. The business need to comply with all existing requirements for obtaining a pesticide business license.

Finally, commercial pesticide applications via drone or unmanned aerial vehicle need to comply with the label requirements of each pesticide product being applied. Remember the label is the law! Unfortunately, though, there is little clear guidance on pesticide labels that pertains to drone applications. One thing to note is that if the label prohibits aerial application then the product cannot be applied by a drone. If aerial application is permitted, the application rate and other parameters need to be in compliance with the label. Also it is important to point out, manufacturers and users are adopting commercial nozzles meant for self-propelled sprayers, which can be a concern for product deposition and coverage.

Pesticide Best Management Practices for Commercial Lawn and Ornamental Plant Care

Posted on by Teresa Roberts

By Frannie Miller and Cheryl Boyer

“The label is the law.” Most pesticide applicators are familiar with this phrase. Yet, pesticides are sometimes used in ways inconsistent with product labels. Examples may include using a product on a site that it is not labeled for, using a rate greater than labeled, using an application method that is not labeled, and many others. Sometimes, pesticides have similar active ingredients but different formulations. Using a formulation not labeled for a particular site is also a misuse. Even though the off-label practice seems harmless at the time, doing so may have unintended consequences, including additional pesticide limitations. The pesticide toxicity and amount of exposure affect the amount of risk to human health. Remember, pesticides are designed to kill certain organisms (insects, weeds, and diseases) and therefore have a degree of toxicity that could cause harm to humans. Label directions are written to minimize risks for homeowners, applicators, bystanders, and the environment. Remember to read, understand and follow the pesticide product label carefully. The following paragraphs discuss some best management practices when making pesticide applications.

First, conduct regular pest scouting to identify issues such as weeds, insects, and diseases, and then assess if the pest pressure justifies treatment. For those pests that are a common problem, develop an integrated pest management (IPM) plan which outlines the non-chemical pest control methods that can be used to help manage these pests. Examples include prevention (sanitation, use of pest-free seeds/transplants), physical barriers (landscape fabric, mulch), mechanical (hand removal, hoeing, plant thinning/trimming), cultural practices (timely watering and fertilization, planting turf varieties to pest pressure), and biological control (promoting beneficial insects). Use pesticides only when pest populations reach economic threshold levels or when conditions favor the development of high populations and then apply the pesticide at the labeled rate. Spot treat if the pest populations are not widely distributed throughout the area. Also, try to select pesticides with low toxicity to humans and other non-target organisms, such as pollinators, pets, birds, etc.

Second, ensure the protection of the environment by calibrating and inspecting application equipment before application. Do not calibrate near ponds, lakes, or other bodies of water, and do not apply to any water body unless the product is labeled for aquatic use. Never clean pesticide application equipment over a mix/load pad that has a drain or where contaminated rinse water can flow into a body of water. Follow spray drift management recommendations/requirements on the product label to help mitigate drift. Examples include not applying when the wind blows> 15 mph or under temperature inversion conditions. Ensure pollinator requirements on the label are followed. These statements are under the “Environmental Hazards” or the “Bee Advisory” box on the label. Avoid using pesticides within the same chemical group or mode of action over an extended period of time to help prevent pesticide resistance. Look at each product’s active ingredient(s) and keep records of what you have used for a specific pest.

Third, follow the label to ensure the safety of applicators, homeowners, handlers, and others. Always keep the product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) available for all the products you apply. Always use the label-approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE is intended to prevent pesticide exposure to the applicator by creating a barrier between the applicator and the pesticide. Store PPE in a clean and safe place to avoid contamination. Keep pesticide products in the original container and store pesticide products in a safe and secure place that is out of the reach of children.

The turfgrass and ornamental industry spends hundreds of millions of dollars to develop pesticides and the data to prove they can be used safely. Users are responsible for following label directions and handling products in ways that ensure safe use. This is one of the most important steps to take to protect the well-being of our families and communities and ensure access to pesticides in the future.

Two-Minute Turf Extension Video: Impact of Nitrogen on Weed Encroachment

Posted on by Jack Fry

This new blog video gives an update on a research project, a turf-related issue, or current concerns in the turf industry.  Each one will be approximately 2 minutes long – you’ll see one periodically!

On this video, the first one, see the impact of nitrogen fertilization on crabgrass encroachment in a field project at the Olathe Horticulture Center.  This study is being done at several universities in the north central U.S. including Iowa State, Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota State, Ohio State, and Wisconsin.  Most are looking at weeds in cool-season grasses, but you’ll hear about bermudagrass here.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW

 

 

 

Bagworms and Eastern Tent Caterpillars

Posted on by Jack Fry
New useful posts on from the Department of Entomology:
Bagworms – It is Almost Time
We are getting close to the time when the 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch bags associated with the bagworm, Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformus, will be present on broadleaf and evergreen trees and shrubs. Therefore, be prepared to take action against bagworms once they are observed on plants. More details here:
Eastern Tent Caterpillar
Here is an update on Eastern tent caterpillar in trees and shrubs: