MenuTasmanian grass grub beetle flights occurring
Region: All NZ
Tasmanian grass grub beetle flights occurring. This pest appears to be spreading and may appear in areas where it has not previously been seen. e.g. It is now present in Cromwell. The significance of this is not yet known. New observations can be reported to colin.ferguson@agresearch.co.nz
Brassica crop pests increasing in number
Region: All NZ
Keep an eye on aphids, diamondback moth caterpillars and white butterfly caterpillars in brassica crops. With warm summer temperatures, these can increase quickly. Treating these pests before high numbers occur will provide the greatest economic return.
Check sunny slopes for Chilean needle grass
Region: All NZ
Chilean needle grass will become evident in pastures in November-December. Keep an eye out for the reddish-purple colour of the seed heads when they first emerge. Each seed has a 7 cm long awn (bristle-like tail). This grass is most likely to be found in pastures on north/west-facing drought-prone slopes but may be present in contaminated stock feed/hay. Â If you suspect that you have it, please contact your local council biosecurity people for identification and management advice immediately.
Clover root weevil present in most areas
Region: All NZ
Clover root weevil will be very obvious in most areas. While control is generally not an option, careful management of clover will help maintain pasture quality. Additional nitrogen may need to be applied to pastures and clover should not be over-grazed.
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