BHF, weevil, and cutworms are out. Some pests are coming in over threshold and are needing sprays for management. If you haven’t already starting scouting, you should get out as soon as possible. You may want to get your trap equipment together over the next week or so and be ready to put the pheromone traps a bit earlier than June 1 this year.
Some folks had questions about flooding and Casoron use for dodder control. If you apply Casoron first, you should allow about 3 weeks before putting a flood on the bog. We have data that shows the herbicide will travel up into the floodwaters if the bogs are flooded soon after application. The other option is to flood first and then apply the Casoron. Be cautious with Ben Lear as they are susceptible to injury with Casoron. Be aware of the temperature of the flood water when using it for dodder management. Warm water is harder on the vines. Try to pick cool overcast days for the flood. Be ready to remove the flood if conditions get hot and sunny.
If you are planning to use slow-release spring fertilizer, the application window is upon us. Inland area early varieties are approaching roughneck and you should be thinking about fertilizing accordingly.
The latest pictures for growth and development are on the website. We will continue to post growth stage photos at least once per week.
