Considered the number one insect pest of alfalfa throughout Kansas is which insect?

Considered the number one insect pest of alfalfa throughout Kansas is which insect?

• A. Grasshopper
• B. Potato leafhopper
• C. Pea aphid
• D. Alfalfa weevil

Answer: (D)

Alfalfa weevil is the insect that most consistently causes the greatest yield and stand losses in alfalfa across Kansas. The pest is highly adapted to alfalfa and timing is critical: adults emerge in spring and lay eggs in the young growing tips. The larvae then feed on the tender terminal foliage, skeletonizing leaves and stunting regrowth. Because the damage happens during the first flush of growth, infestations can quickly reduce yield and stand vigor if not detected and managed promptly. Scouting the field early in the spring and during the first cutting window helps determine when control is needed, and labeled insecticides or other approved management practices are used when economically justified. Other insects like grasshoppers, leafhoppers, or pea aphids can cause damage in some years or places, but they do not consistently exceed alfalfa weevil in impact across the entire state.

Alfalfa weevil is the insect that most consistently causes the greatest yield and stand losses in alfalfa across Kansas. The pest is highly adapted to alfalfa and timing is critical: adults emerge in spring and lay eggs in the young growing tips. The larvae then feed on the tender terminal foliage, skeletonizing leaves and stunting regrowth. Because the damage happens during the first flush of growth, infestations can quickly reduce yield and stand vigor if not detected and managed promptly. Scouting the field early in the spring and during the first cutting window helps determine when control is needed, and labeled insecticides or other approved management practices are used when economically justified. Other insects like grasshoppers, leafhoppers, or pea aphids can cause damage in some years or places, but they do not consistently exceed alfalfa weevil in impact across the entire state.