With drought conditions spreading throughout the state, there is not only concern around crop conditions, but also pests such as spider mites. Nick Seiter, University of Illinois Extension Field Crops Entomologist says that he hasn’t heard of any reports of spider mites, but conditions are starting to favor the mites.
Spider mites target drought-stressed plats which Seitzer says we have a lot of right now in Illinois.
When scouting for spider mites, Seitzer says to look for discoloration or yellow in the field. You may even see the mites or their webbing if you take a closer look at the area.
If you know you have an outbreak, there are a few things you can do.
Nick Seiter, University of Illinois Extension Field Crops Entomologist
**Audio Courtesy of Todd Gleason**
