Pests & Diseases

Since farmers began growing alfalfa, controlling pocket gophers has been one of the biggest challenges to maximize the value from each stand.

Alfalfa weevils continue to plague our alfalfa hay production in the north-central states. Last year, producers and agronomists reported severe defoliation from weevils, reducing the alfalfa biomass and yields, especially in drought situations.

Dr. Terry Greathouse has been farming and ranching in Texas for more than 30 years. Much of that time, he has been fighting an ongoing battle against pocket gophers.

Round-up Ready alfalfa, longevity, high yields and clean fields are making it possible to maintain alfalfa stands for five to six years instead of plowing them up after two or three years.

This is the time of the year you will get busy with spraying. Just take a moment to review some common sense ideas to get the most out of those expensive pesticides you will be spraying.

As we enter the second half of the year, this summer is continuing to be one of turbulent ups and downs for hay and forage growers.