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It truly is a bug's life
David G. Hallauer
Jefferson County, Kan., Extension Agent
You've heard the expression gone to the birds? Well, this week's column has gone to the bugs. They are everywhere.
I wish there were enough space here to tell you everything you need to know about all the insect species causing trouble right now, but there's not. So, let's take a look at the top "invaders" for lawn and gardens this time of year.
West Nile Virus has been all over the news this week, with KDHE announcing cases all over the state. Transmitted by mosquitos, it is this insect that can cause death in populations of birds, horses, and even humans.
What to do? Eliminate standing water, including water on tarps covering hay, your boat, car, etc. Use insect repellent with DEET and wear protective clothing when practical. Use larvicide in water that cannot be drained or removed; we still have a limited amount of one product available that may be of assistance. Change water frequently in bird baths, pet bowls, and wading pools. Limit outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. If you become ill, consult your doctor immediately. If you see dead birds call the West Nile virus hotline at 877-228-2287.
The state is testing crows, bluejays, magpies and birds of prey--hawks, owls and eagles. The birds must be intact and dead no longer than 24 hours. They should be placed in a double plastic bag and kept in the freezer until submitted. Call the hotline and they'll give you instructions to get them to us. We've got lots more information available if you need it. Give us a call.
All the eggs are hatched. If you haven't sprayed, do so immediately. Active ingredients registered for use against bagworms include acephate, Bacillus thuringiensis, bifenthrin, carbaryl, cyfluthrin, diazinon, dimethoate, esfenvalerate, lambda-cyhalothrin, malathion, permethrin and spinosid. Make sure coverage with products is thorough.
If you want to maintain "perfect turf", treat for white grubs now. Long-season insecticides with the active ingredients imidacloprid or halofenozide should be applied now. Even if you applied early, you may not have enough residual come August to do much good. Short residual active ingredients--carbaryl, permethrin and trichlorfon--should never be used as preventative treatments at this time of the season as they will be gone in August.
Chiggers, ticks, and grasshoppers, too, are still very prevalent. For information on how to combat them, give us a call at the Office or e-mail me at dhallaue@oznet.ksu.edu.
The Jefferson County Fair is just around the corner. Keep an eye out for information about fair events and happenings in the coming weeks. Whether you want to see shows or judging during the day, or entertainment and great food in the evenings, we've got something for everyone. See you at the Fair, Aug. 2 through 5.
Date: 7/22/04
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