By Scout Nelson
Soybean farmers in southeastern, south-central, and west-central Nebraska are facing a growing threat from pillbugs, which have been damaging crops especially shortly after plant emergence. This crustacean, also known as Armadillidium vulgare, has been problematic in fields with heavy crop residue, where it thrives in moist conditions.
The damage typically occurs at the hypocotyl — just below the cotyledonary node of the soybean plants, leading to potential plant death and the necessity for replanting in some fields. Fortunately, replanted soybean fields usually face less risk from pillbugs due to faster germination and emergence rates, coupled with less favorable conditions for pillbugs as the weather dries.
Jeff Whitworth from Kansas State University notes that while insecticides can kill pillbugs, damage prevention to new plants remains a challenge. Research suggests increasing soybean plant densities might reduce the need for replanting. Strategies like increasing plant populations from 148,000 to 296,000 plants per acre have been considered, based on findings by Johnson et al. in 2013.
Management strategies are crucial, especially considering pillbugs' survival needs and the protective nature of heavy crop residues that can shield them from treatments. Cultural control methods such as strip tillage or complete tillage may be effective but could conflict with sustainable agricultural practices.
Farmers are encouraged to report any significant pillbug activity to their local extension educators, which helps in documenting the issue and setting research priorities. For more detailed guidelines on managing pillbug damage and replanting considerations, farmers should refer to resources like the "Soybean Replanting Considerations" guide by Jenny Rees and others.
As the agricultural community in Nebraska continues to combat this pest, staying informed and proactive is essential for protecting crops and ensuring the sustainability of farming operations.
Photo Credit -istock-sandramatic
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Soybeans