Soybean Aphid Management

The last half of July had moderate weather conditions favorable for soybean aphid reproduction in the Midwest. Aphid populations have begun to build rapidly, primarily in the northwestern Corn Belt. This includes Minnesota, eastern N. and S. Dakota, northeast Nebraska, Iowa, and Wisconsin, with some fields in these states approaching the treatment threshold of 250 aphids per plant. For this reason, growers in these states are encouraged to diligently monitor soybean fields to assess aphid build-ups.

In other states, growers should monitor fields and extension information as the season progresses, even if aphid populations are currently low. There is ample time in all soybean growing areas for aphids to build to damaging levels. This Crop Insights addresses soybean aphid damage, life cycle, response to climate, and management. Spraying considerations, Pioneer’s antiobiosis ratings, biocontrol, insecticide timing and ongoing research are discussed.

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