News

Corn rootworm emergence picking up steam

An extension agronomist says corn rootworm has been prevalent across parts of the Corn Belt.

Meaghan Anderson with Iowa State University says rootworm beetles have been rapidly emerging. “Unless you go out and get in your fields, some people may be surprised by yield loss at the end of the season and unaware of where that came from. We’re seeing high corn rootworm pressure in numerous places.”

She tells Brownfield the pest can cause significant yield loss. “For each node fed by corn rootworms on a corn plant, that would be equivalent to approximately 15% yield loss. If they have fed all three of those roots off, we’re talking about a potential of 45% or so yield loss.”

Anderson says rootworm infestations comprise root systems which leads to lodged or downed corn.

AUDIO: Crop update – ISU Extension’s Meaghan Anderson 7-23-2024