Soybean growers in the northern parts of Kansas need to be aware of a potential new pest, the Soybean Gall Midge. While not found in KS yet, it has been detected in southern Nebraska. Yield losses from this insect are due to plant death and lodging. Learn how to identify this emerging soybean pest and how to report any possible sightings.
This past week, soybean gall midge was found infesting soybean and sweet clover in Marshall and Nemaha counties. This pest should be actively scouted for during the growing season, especially in counties along the Nebraska border. Losses from soybean gall midge infestation are due to plant death and lodging.
In 2023, soybean gall midge was found infesting soybean and sweet clover in Marshall and Nemaha counties in Kansas. Since this pest can overwinter in Kansas, producers should be on the lookout for additional infestations in 2024. Scouting for this pest should start when the plants are at the V2 growth stage.