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First codling moth flight of 2026 detected in Latah County

General Landscape and Garden Northern Idaho

Codling Moth

Posted on: May 8, 2026 by Samuel DeGrey

Multiple codling moths were captured in a monitoring trap in Moscow, Latah County, Idaho on May 6th, 2026.

The first detected flight date of May 6^th will serve as the biofix, or the date where we begin accumulating degree days, for Moscow, Idaho. Degree days provide an estimate for life cycle stages of insect pests, and can be a tool to better time management decisions for farmers, horticultural professionals, and gardeners.

Please visit our degree day dashboard to track degree days for codling moth in Moscow - https://pnwpestalert.net/gdd/index

Please consult the Pacific Northwest Pest Management handbook for degree-day based management recommendations for codling moth - https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth .

First apple codling moth flight of 2026 detected in Ada County

All Crops Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Codling Moth

Posted on: May 8, 2026 by Sierra Laverty

First apple codling moth flight of 2026 detected in Ada County

Multiple codling moths were captured in a monitoring trap at Spaulding Ranch in Boise, Ada County, Idaho on May 1st, 2026.

May 1st will serve as the biofix for codling moth at the trapping site. Biofix is a specific, biological event used as a starting date for estimating the timeline of an insect’s lifecycle. An insect’s lifecycle is estimated using degree days (DD), which are units that measure how cold or warm an area is over time, based on if the average temperature is one degree above or below a specific base temperature. Adult codling moths were detected at 170 DD in Ada County. Please note that microclimates in the Treasure Valley are highly variable and your particular site may be colder or warmer than the monitoring site at Spaulding Ranch.

Management actions:

Thin fruit clusters to one fruit to reduce contact points between fruits now
Apply coverage insecticide sprays at 250 accumulated DD since May 1st or 420 total DD since January 1st. Another alert will be posted through PNW Pest Alert Network at that time.

To track degree days in the Treasure Valley, visit our website: https://pnwpestalert.net/gdd/index

Please consult the Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbook for degree-day based management recommendations for codling moth: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

What is codling moth? Codling moth is a key insect pest of apples and pears in Idaho. Left unmanaged, it can cause "wormy" fruit and significant crop loss.

Identification – Know the Signs & Symptoms

Stage	Identification
Adult Moth	Grayish-brown, 1/2 inch long, with a coppery-brown band at wing tips.
Egg	Tiny, flat, and translucent – laid singly on fruit or leaves.
Larva	Creamy white to pink caterpillar with a dark brown head – this is the “worm.”
Pupa	Formed in bark crevices or leaf litter in silken cocoons.

Symptoms on Fruit:

Small, dark entry holes ("sting") on the apple surface.
Frass (sawdust-like excrement) near the hole.
Tunnels inside the fruit leading to the core.
Premature fruit drop in severe infestations.

Current Monitoring & Degree Days:

Biofix (first moths detected): May 1
Current Degree Days (base 50°F): 262 DD as of May 8
Egg hatch begins: 220-250 DD

Management Options

Non-Chemical Options

Fruit thinning: Thin clusters to one fruit to reduce contact points between fruits.
Fruit Bagging: Bag individual fruits to block larvae entry.
Sanitation: Remove dropped fruit and prune trees to reduce overwintering sites.

Coverage Insecticide Sprays

When: Apply at 250 DD after biofix (420 DD total since January 1st, based on 2026 monitoring)
Action: Apply insecticides to kill newly hatched larvae before they burrow into fruit.

For insecticide options: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

All pesticides, including least-toxic alternatives, have benefits and potential hazards. You must read and follow the pesticide label for specific directions, paying close attention to the directions for use and application rates. Inconsistent use of a product or disregarding the label is a violation of both state and federal laws.

For season-long control: Codling moth has multiple generations per season. Continue monitoring traps and tracking degree days to time follow-up sprays and other control measures.

For more assistance, contact your local University of Idaho Extension office: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties

» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

» https://climate.usu.edu/includes/pestFactSheets/Codling-Moth.pdf

» https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

Ag Talk Tuesday resumes for the 2026 season

All Crops All Locations

Posted on: May 1, 2026 by Kasia Duellman

Save the Date: Ag Talk Tuesday – 2026 Season

Please mark your calendars for the 2026 season of Ag Talk Tuesday, hosted by the University of Idaho Extension. Sessions will be held from 11:00 AM to Noon (MDT) on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, May through August.

We’ll kick off the season on May 5 with a water update.

Each Ag Talk Tuesday session begins with approximately 30 minutes of informal crop reports led by UI Extension personnel. All attendees are encouraged to participate and share observations or updates. The second half of the session features a more structured presentation on a timely agricultural topic, delivered by a guest speaker. An Ag Talk Tuesday organizer facilitates each session to guide discussion, gather crop updates, and moderate questions for the featured presentation.

Registration is free but required.
To register, please visit the Ag Talk Tuesday website:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/events/ag-talk

Or register directly using this link:
https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/xJRvquC7T66Czb_qpW0A_A#/registration

We hope you can join us for a productive and informative season of Ag Talk Tuesday!

Sincerely,
Your Ag Talk Tuesday Organizers

Emily Bedwell (ebedwell@uidaho.edu)
Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu)
Doug Finkelnburg (dougf@uidaho.edu)
Juliet Marshall (jmarshall@uidaho.edu)

» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/events/ag-talk

Stripe Rust Observed on Cheatgrass – Vigilance Advised for Wheat Fields

All Crops Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Stripe Rust

Posted on: March 27, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

» Strip_rust_on_cheat_1.jpg

Annual Survey

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: March 26, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

We Didn’t Forget… We’re Getting Ready to Celebrate!
As we prepare to celebrate 25 years of the PNW Pest Alert Network, we want to hear from the people who made this journey possible — you!
Our Annual Survey is still open, and your feedback plays a critical role in shaping the future of pest alerts, GDD tools, and decision-support resources across Idaho and the Pacific Northwest.
Haven’t taken the survey yet? There’s still time!
Your input helps us:
Improve real-time pest alerts
Enhance GDD-based decision tools
Deliver more region-specific, actionable insights
Bonus!
Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a Lucky Draw, and winners will be announced during our 25-Year Celebration on May 20th!
Don’t miss out:
✔ Share your feedback
✔ Enter the lucky draw
✔ Be part of our milestone celebration
Take the survey today!
*Crop Subscribers - https://uidaho.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0BQQgjBpDHFSVNk
*Garden and Landscape Subscribers - https://uidaho.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUXPcTHHBz4qQsK
Thanks for your time taking the survey!

Early Pest Detections - Codling Moth & Peach Twig Borer

Apple    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Codling Moth & Peach Twig Borer

Posted on: March 24, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

Pest Alert: Early Detection of Codling Moth & Peach Twig Borer
Location: Farmway & Karcher area, Treasure Valley, Idaho
Date: March 24, 2026
Backyard growers in the Farmway and Karcher area have reported early captures of key orchard pests in delta traps:
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella) – 1 adult captured
Peach twig borer (Anarsia lineatella) – 1 adult captured
These detections are earlier than typically expected, signaling that pest activity has begun in localized areas.
What This Means
This may represent early flight initiation (biofix approaching or beginning) for both pests.
Even low trap counts are important—they indicate the start of adult emergence.
Warmer early-season conditions may be accelerating development.
Recommended Actions for Growers
Deploy traps immediately if not already in place (especially in apples, pears, peaches, nectarines).
Check traps regularly (2–3 times per week) to monitor trends.
Record first consistent captures to establish a reliable biofix.
Begin tracking Growing Degree Days (GDD) for precise timing of:
Egg hatch (Codling moth)
Larval emergence (Peach twig borer)Why It Matters
Why It Matters
Accurate timing based on trap data + GDD allows for:
Improved spray timing
Reduced unnecessary pesticide applications
Better pest control and fruit protection
Stay Connected
Continue monitoring updates through the PNW Pest Alert Network for region-specific guidance and GDD-based recommendations.

Onion Growers Alert

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Cull Onion Disposal

Posted on: March 4, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

Growers are reminded that the deadline to dispose of existing cull onion piles is March 15 to help prevent the buildup of onion pests such as onion maggot.
Key Requirements
All existing cull onion piles must be disposed of by March 15.
From March 15 to July 1, any new cull piles must be disposed of within one week of creation.
Proper disposal is essential to reduce pest development and protect nearby onion fields.
Management Options
If cull onions cannot be buried in a timely manner, piles may be treated with an approved insecticide labeled for cull piles or non-crop areas.
Approved options previously identified include:
Malathion products
Gowan Malathion 8 Flowable – EPA Reg. No. 10163-21
Malathion 5 EC – EPA Reg. No. 66330-220
(Malathion is generally the most economical option.)
Azadirachtin products
AzaGuard – EPA Reg. No. 70299-17
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME – EPA Reg. No. 5481-559
Gowan Aza-Direct – EPA Reg. No. 71908-1-10163
Always read and follow pesticide label instructions before application.
Additional Regulations
In Malheur County, Oregon, no more than 80 tons of onion debris may be buried per acre.
State regulations related to onion maggot management and cull disposal can be found in the links below.
Additional Resources
Oregon rule: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action
Idaho rule (onion maggot section begins on page 8): https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rules/current/02/020605.pdf

» ODA Onion Maggot Cull Letter

» Pesticide Advisory Notice

» ISDA Cull Onion Brochure

Treasure Valley Onion School

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: December 19, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

» Treasure_Valley_Onion_Workshop_Revised.pdf

Pesticide Recertification Seminars

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: October 6, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Upcoming Treasure Valley Cropping Systems Seminars: Pests and Pesticides
When: Monday, October 20 & Thursday, October 23, 2025
Where: 1904 E Chicago Street, Caldwell Research and Extension Centre, University of Idaho Extension, Caldwell, Idaho
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM both days
The Treasure Valley Cropping Systems Pests and Pesticide Seminars bring together Extension specialists and regulatory experts to provide the latest updates on insect pests and pesticide regulations for Idaho growers, applicators, and agricultural professionals. Each day features two focused, one-hour sessions followed by Q&A, offering practical, research-based information to strengthen IPM practices, improve decision-making, and ensure compliance.
Cost is free/ Registration required https://forms.office.com/r/B6wWQ6Q0x8?origin=lprLink
Pesticide Credits: 4 (2 for each day)
Monday, October 20, 2025 – Insect Pests of Treasure Valley Crops
10:00–11:00 AM – Insect Pests and Their Management in Treasure Valley Crops
Speaker: Dr. Armando Falcon-Brindis, University of Idaho Extension
→ Focus on key insect pests, thresholds, and integrated management strategies.
11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Classical and Emerging Horticulture Insects & Pathogens in Idaho
Speaker: Bradley Stokes, University of Idaho Extension
→ Highlights on invasive and established pests, safe pesticide use, and IPM in home and commercial horticulture.
Thursday, October 23, 2025 – Pesticides & Regulations
10:00–11:00 AM – Understanding Pesticide Chemistry: From Mode of Action to Resistance Management
Speaker: Dr. Marcelo Dimase, University of Idaho Extension
→ Learn how pesticide chemistry connects with field management and resistance prevention.
11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Navigating Pesticide Regulations and Compliance in Idaho
Speaker: Blaine Sterling, Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA)
→ Review Idaho licensing, record-keeping, label interpretation, and compliance requirements.
Why Attend
Strengthen your IPM knowledge
Stay compliant with Idaho pesticide laws
Connect with Extension and ISDA experts
For more information or registration details, contact:
Jemila Chellappa, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor & Area Extension Educator – Cropping Systems
University of Idaho Extension, Southern Districts

» Oct 20 Seminar Flyer

» Oct 23 Seminar Flyer

Psyllid captures decline overall, one new Lso-positive – 11 September 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: September 11, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from 21 fields that we are monitoring. Most fields have undergone vine kill and/or monitoring on them has otherwise ceased.
• We captured a total of 11 psyllids across 3 fields.
• Captures were from Canyon and Twin Falls counties.
• Among the 17 psyllids captured last week, one tested positive for Lso.
This is our last week reporting psyllid captures. Next week we will report on Lso incidence in psyllids captured this week. Psyllid captures from this week were relatively low overall. One of the psyllids from last week tested positive for Lso; this was the first Lso-positive psyllid since early August. Lso incidence this year has been relatively high, but thankfully the relatively low abundance of psyllids should mitigate risk of ZC somewhat. Nevertheless, we encourage you to maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas that have had higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids earlier this season. Next week we will post an end-of-season wrap up.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Psyllid captures tick up, no new Lso – 28 August 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: August 28, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from 31 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 43 psyllids across 14 fields.
• Captures were from Canyon, Gooding, and Twin Falls counties.
• Among the 14 psyllids captured last week, none tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures ticked up this week in both the Magic and Treasure valleys. This is not entirely surprising given that psyllid abundance very often spikes during August, though captures had been tracking much lower over the past several weeks. Thankfully all the psyllids from last week tested negative for Lso. Some fields have undergone vine kill and will no longer be monitored. Early harvest also limited person-power for trap retrieval from some sites, so those traps will be retrieved next week. We encourage you to maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas that have had higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids this season.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Psyllid captures still low, Lso still present – 21 August 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: August 21, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from all 48 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 14 psyllids across 8 fields.
• Captures were from Owyhee, Canyon, Gooding, Jerome, and Twin Falls counties.
• Among the 12 psyllids captured last week, 1 tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures this week remained quite low, and one more Lso-positive psyllid was captured last week. Overall captures this year have been low to modest with relatively high prevalence of Lso. Thankfully the low captures should help to mitigate the potential risk of ZC that may come with high prevalence of Lso. Interestingly, we still have yet to capture a potato psyllid in the Upper Snake region this year. Please maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas with higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Psyllid captures lessen slightly, Lso is still present– 14 August 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: August 14, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from all 48 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 12 psyllids across 5 fields.
• Captures were from Payette, Canyon, Twin Falls, and Minidoka counties.
• Among the 24 psyllids captured last week, 2 tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures this week ticked down a bit from last week, and two more Lso-positive psyllids were captured last week. Overall captures this year have been modest with relatively high prevalence of Lso. Interestingly, we still have yet to capture a potato psyllid in the Upper Snake region this year. Please maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas with higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert

All Crops    Eastern Idaho

Posted on: August 13, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

EASTERN IDAHO PEST ALERT
Serving Counties: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Power, and Teton
Date: August 8, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 13
Disease Spotlight: Fusarium Wilt
Cause: Soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum
Crops Affected: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, melons
Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, brown vascular tissue
Management: Resistant varieties, crop rotation, soil health, sanitation, biological controls, solarization, and avoiding overwatering.
Fall Tree & Shrub Planting Tips
Why Fall is Ideal: Cooler temps, more rain, and still-warm soil encourage root growth.
Key Practice: Root washing helps correct root deformities in container plants.
Tips: Dig wide (not deep), use native soil, water wisely, mulch properly, stake only if necessary.
Codling Moth Management
Timing: 2nd generation egg hatch in most areas has begun or passed. Continue protection through Sept. 15.
Spray Schedules: Vary by location and fruit damage history (see region-specific table on page 5).
Product Guidance:
Conventional options: Spectracide, Sevin, Malathion, Bonide, etc.
Organic options: Neem oil, Cyd-X, Spinosad, pyrethrin products.
Choose different products for each generation to prevent resistance.
Fireblight Control
When: Monitor symptoms ~2 weeks after full bloom; prune infected wood during dry weather.
Chemical Controls: Copper, lime sulfur, oxytetracycline, Actigard, etc.
Biological Controls: Include Streptomycin, Blossom Protect, Serenade Optimum, Regalia, and others.
Pruning Reminder: Always disinfect tools between cuts.
Upcoming Events
IDAHO HOME GARDEN TIPS:
Aug 12: Deer Proofing Your Yard – Sara Mahdavi @ 7 PM
Aug 19: Late Season Flowers – Andy West @ 7 PM
Aug 26: Dehydrating Your Harvest
Sept 9: Understanding Manures
Sept 23: Freeze Drying Your Harvest
PLANT TALK Q&A:
Ron Patterson & Reed Findlay – Aug 12 & Aug 19 @ 7:30 PM
Contact Info:
University of Idaho Extension – Bonneville County

» AUGUST 8, 2025| VOL. 6 ISS. 13

Reminder - Miller Research Potato Pest Management Field Day - August 20

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: August 12, 2025 by Jeff Miller

Come to the Miller Research Potato Pest Management Field Day on Wednesday, August 20. Registration begins at 8:30 with the field tour going from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Three ISDA pesticide recertification credits and three CCA IPM credits are available.
The cost to attend is $20 and lunch will be provided.

2025 marks our 50th anniversary! Come celebrate with us at the field day!

» https://millerresearch.com/event/2025-miller-research-potato-pest-management-field-day/

Reminder: Parma Field Day

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: August 11, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

2025 Field Day at Parma

University of Idaho Field Days - August 14 and August 21

All Crops    All Locations

General Announcement related to Agriculture

Posted on: August 5, 2025 by Kasia Duellman

Please mark your calendars for 2 upcoming University of Idaho Field Days:
August 14: Parma Field Day - Parma Research and Extension Center, 29603 U of I Lane, Parma Idaho
Registration is FREE and begins at 7:15 AM, with FREE breakfast
Tour begins at 8:00 AM and concludes at 11:30 AM
1 ISDA credit, 2 ODA credits, 2 CCA/CCU IPM credits
For more information, contact Dr. James Woodhall (jwoodhall@uidaho.edu) or Dr. Armando Falcon-Brindis (afalconbrindis@uidaho.edu)
August 21: Aberdeen Potato IPM Field Day - Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, 1693 S 2700 W, Aberdeen Idaho
Not just potatoes - topics also cover small grains, mustards, and more
Registration is FREE and begins at 8:30 AM
Tour begins at 9:00 AM and concludes at Noon, with a FREE box lunch
2 ISDA credits, and CCA/CCU credits will also be available
For more information, contact Dr. Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu)

Water Storage Options in Eastern Idaho

All Crops    Eastern Idaho

Posted on: July 28, 2025 by Juliet Marshall

The seminar will feature a keynote address by Senator Cook (30th District), a forecast for the groundwater-surface water agreement, presentations on and drone footage of water storage alternatives, and an expert panel discussion on the alternatives presented to answer your questions. Alternatives to increase storage include: Teton Dam, Ashton Dam, Lane Lake, Jackson Dam, Minidoka Dam, and Mud Lake. This year’s gathering is co-hosted with the Henry’s Fork Watershed Council, with sponsorship from the Bingham Groundwater District and the Snake River Headwaters Watershed Group.

Water Storage Options in Eastern Idaho
Date: Tuesday, August 19 from 8:30am–2:30pm (lunch provided)
Location: Romance Theater, 2 E Main St, Rexburg ID
We are currently investigating options for livestream, but cannot guarantee a live virtual format. Please prioritize in-person attendance.

RSVP required. Visit tinyurl.com/wateridaho. This will help us get an accurate estimate for lunch, catered by Blisters BBQ.
The agenda and meeting flyer are attached. Please circulate with those who might be interested. Please contact either Keith, Dean Mortimer, or Brad Buttars if your organization is interested in helping sponsor this important event.

Please don't hesitate to be in touch with questions. Hope to see you there!

Thank you,
Roger Warner, President
Keith Esplin, Executive Director
208.243.1824

Psyllid captures increase – 24 July 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: July 24, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from 48 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 38 psyllids across 13 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Payette, Canyon, Jerome, Gooding, and Twin Falls.
• Among the 13 psyllids captured last week, none tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures this week ticked up from last week and were slightly above what we have seen during this period in the last three seasons. This is not entirely surprising given the high temperatures, and captures are still not anywhere near our highest capture years. ZC risk still appears to be fairly low this year.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert - July 11, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 9

All Crops    Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

Posted on: July 16, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert - July 11, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 9
Coverage: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Power, and Teton Counties
Prepared by: University of Idaho Extension, Bonneville County
Editor: Ron Patterson
Featured Pest Alerts
Blister Mites (Phytoptus pyri, Eriophyes mali)
Host Crops: Apples, Pears
Symptoms: Brown, blister-like galls on upper leaf surfaces; stunted growth and early leaf drop in heavy infestations
IPM Tips:
Apply dormant oil sprays in late winter
Monitor with a hand lens during early spring bud break
Use sulfur dust or miticides post-bloom as needed
Encourage predatory mites and avoid broad-spectrum insecticides
Pollinator & Predator Spotlight – Painted Lady Beetle (Mulsantina picta)
Benefits: Natural predator of aphids, mites, and soft-bodied pests
Habitat: Conifers, meadows, and gardens
Conservation Tips:
Include native flowering plants and conifers
Leave mulch, bark, and leaf litter undisturbed for overwintering
Refrain from using broad-spectrum pesticides
Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella)
Current Stage: First and second generation overlap ongoing
Spray Guidance:
High-pressure sites: Follow Option A (insecticide) or Option B (oil + insecticide) and repeat every 14–18 days
Low-pressure sites: Begin at first egg hatch and adjust timing based on trap data
Backyard Options: Use products like Spinosad, Malathion, or codling moth virus (Cyd-X) based on label rates
Note: See full tables (pgs. 6–7) for region-specific spray dates from Burley to Driggs

Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora)
Symptoms: Blackened shoots resembling fire scorch; visible two weeks post-bloom
Management Tips:
Prune on dry days and disinfect tools between cuts
Apply protectants or resistance inducers during bloom (e.g., Actigard, Regalia)
Apply biologicals (e.g., Blossom Protect, Serenade) at bloom or post-bloom
Backyard Note: If no blooms are present, focus on sanitation and pruning
Webinars & Upcoming Events
July 22 – Chip Bud Grafting Fruit Trees – Bracken Henderson (7:30 PM MT)
July 24 – Plant Talk Q&A – Ron Patterson & Reed Findlay (7:30 PM MT)
August 12 – Deer Proofing Your Yard – Sara Mahdavi (7:00 PM MT)
August 26 – Dehydrating Your Harvest
Sept 9 – Understanding Manures
Sept 23 – Freeze Drying Your Harvest
Zoom Link: https://uidaho.zoom.us/j/92616335377
More Information: Check the Attached PDF
Contact:
Lena Allen
Horticulture Secretary
University of Idaho Extension – Bonneville County
1542 E 73rd S, Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 529-1390
bonneville@uidaho.edu
uidaho.edu/extension/county/bonneville
Facebook | Instagram

» Pest_Alert_July_11_2025_blister_mites_painted_lady_beetles.pdf

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert Summary June 20, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 6

All Crops    Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert

Posted on: June 27, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert June 20, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 6
Coverage: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Power, and Teton Counties
Prepared by: University of Idaho Extension, Bonneville County
Editor: Ron Patterson
Featured Pest Alerts
Raspberry Crown Borer (Pennisetia marginata)
Pest Type: Clear-winged moth
Damage: Larvae bore into crowns/roots, causing cane wilt, stunting, and reduced yield.
IPM Tips:
Remove infested canes in late summer/fall
Eliminate nearby wild brambles
Encourage plant vigor through irrigation
Nighttime insecticide sprays can help
Pollinator Spotlight – Golden-Haired Flower Longhorn Beetle
Species: Lepturobosca chrysocoma
Role: Beneficial pollinator and wood decomposer
Habitat: Flowers in meadows and forest edges
Conservation Tips:
Plant native wildflowers
Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides
Leave some deadwood for larval habitat
Fire Blight in Apples and Pears
Symptoms: Blackened shoots, “burned” look after bloom
Management:
Prune infected shoots on dry days
Disinfect tools between cuts
Apply copper or antibiotics before/after rain or dew
Note: Only spray if blossoms are still open
Codling Moth – 1st & 2nd Generation Spray Timing
Crops at Risk: Apples, pears
Egg Hatch Periods:
June 9–30: Burley, Preston
June 12–July 3: Idaho Falls, Blackfoot
July 2: Driggs (2nd gen)
Backyard & Commercial Tips:
Use insecticides or oils at night for best control
Follow region-specific timing tables
Rotate products between generations
UPCOMING HOME GARDEN TIPS WEBINARS
View full schedule in the attached PDF
More Information Contact:
Lena Allen
Horticulture Secretary
University of Idaho
Bonneville County Extension
208.529.1390
lallen@uidaho.edu
1542 E 73^rd S
Idaho Falls, ID 83404

» Pest_Alert_June_20_GoldenHaired_Flower_Longhorn_Beetle,_raspberry_crown_borer.pdf

Onion Thrips Activity Increasing in the Treasure Valley

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci)

Posted on: June 18, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Pest Alert: Onion Thrips Activity Increasing in the Treasure Valley
Crop: Dry Bulb Onion
Pest: Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci)
Region: Treasure Valley – Oregon and Idaho
Onion thrips populations are increasing across the region, with presence confirmed in over 97% of monitored onion fields. In many of those fields, more than 80% of plants are now infested. Fields with more mature, larger plants are showing particularly elevated activity. Smaller, early-stage fields (3-leaf stage or younger) remain largely unaffected, but this is expected to change as the season progresses.
Thrips Identification & Lifecycle
Adult onion thrips are tiny (1–1.3 mm), slender, pale yellow to brown insects with fringed wings. Immature stages (called larvae or nymphs) are wingless and lighter in color. Thrips thrive in hot, dry conditions and reproduce rapidly, often completing multiple generations per season. Eggs are laid within the leaf tissue, and nymphs feed on sap, developing through several instars before pupating in the soil or leaf axils.
What to Watch For
Silvery streaks or flecking on leaves caused by feeding
Black specks (excrement) near feeding sites
Thrips concentrated in leaf folds, near the neck, or under tight canopies
Reduced vigor or curling of young leaves
Thrips infestations can reduce onion yield by 20% or more. While no significant signs of Iris Yellow Spot Virus (IYSV) have been confirmed so far this season, continued vigilance is important, especially as thrips numbers build. IYSV lesions appear as oval to diamond-shaped chlorotic or necrotic spots on leaves, reducing photosynthetic efficiency and negatively affecting bulb storage.
Management Recommendations
Coverage is Key:
As canopy density increases, spray coverage becomes more challenging. Increase spray volumes to ensure deeper penetration into the neck and inner foliage, where thrips hide.
Insecticide Strategy:
Systemic products (e.g., Movento) are effective by moving through plant tissues and targeting hidden feeding sites.
Translaminar products (e.g., Radiant) enter the leaf surface and reach thrips feeding on the undersides or inside folds.
Adjuvants: Use a penetrating adjuvant to enhance uptake and movement of active ingredients within plant tissue.
Cultural Practices:
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote lush growth and higher thrips populations.
Monitor weed presence, as weeds can serve as alternate thrips hosts.
Early planting and maintaining strong plant vigor can help plants tolerate feeding pressure better.
Resistance Management:
Rotate insecticides with different modes of action to delay resistance development. Always follow label directions and recommended thresholds.
Scouting Tips
Start scouting early and continue weekly, especially as plants reach the 5–7 leaf stage.
Sample at least five plants from four separate areas of the field.
Use hand lenses or beat plants over a white surface to count individuals.
Focus on inner leaves and the base of the neck.
Threshold: Begin treatments when thrips exceed 1–3 per leaf, depending on crop stage and environmental conditions.
Stay vigilant. Early and consistent management of onion thrips helps protect yield potential and reduce the risk of IYSV later in the season.
More management information here https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/vegetable-pests/hosts-pests/onion-thrips

This alert was prepared by Russell Smith Ollivierre, Oregon State University Malheur County Extension, with data contributions from Stuart Reitz, Oregon State University Malheur Experiment Station.

» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/vegetable-pests/hosts-pests/onion-thrips

Strawberry Root Weevil Pupa

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Strawberry Root Weevil

Posted on: June 12, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Strawberry Root Weevil Alert – Be on the Lookout!
Found Strawberry Root Weevil pupae in Treasure Valley: The pupa of the strawberry root weevil (Otiorhynchus ovatus) is a transitional life stage between the larva and adult, typically found in the soil near the root zone of host plants. Here are the key characteristics:
Strawberry Root Weevil – Pupal Stage Characteristics:
Color: Initially creamy white; may turn light tan as it matures.
Shape: Soft-bodied, oblong, and slightly curved. The body is segmented and resembles the general adult form.
Size: About 5–7 mm in length, depending on species and development stage.
Visibility of adult features: The legs, antennae, and developing snout (rostrum) of the adult are visible but folded close to the body.
Habitat: Pupates in an earthen cell or cavity in the soil, usually close to the roots of infested strawberry or other host plants.
Duration: The Pupal stage generally lasts 2–3 weeks in spring (April–June), depending on temperature and soil conditions.
Mobility: Pupae are non-feeding and immobile.
Since pupae are hidden in the soil, they are rarely observed unless the soil is carefully excavated near the crown and roots of the plant. Refer to the attached file for a visual reference of the Strawberry Root Weevil Pupa
Strawberry root weevils (Otiorhynchus spp.) are common pests in strawberry fields across the Pacific Northwest. While adult weevils cause minor notching on leaves, the real damage comes from their larvae feeding on roots through winter and spring, leading to stunted growth, reduced yields, or even plant death in severe cases.
What to Watch For:
Notched leaves from adult feeding (visible in early summer)
Wilting or stunted plants from root damage
Adults hide under plant debris during the day or emerge at night
Now is the time to inspect your strawberry fields. Check for notched leaves, look under plant debris, or monitor at night for adult activity. Early detection is key to preventing egg-laying and larval root damage.
If you notice signs, consider control options including biological (entomopathogenic nematodes), cultural (soil cultivation), or chemical treatments applied at night for best results. More management information here https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/small-fruit/strawberry/strawberry-root-weevil
Stay alert and protect your berries!

» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/small-fruit/strawberry/strawberry-root-weevil

» IMG_7517.jpg

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert June 6, 2025 | Vol. 6, Issue 4

All Crops    Eastern Idaho

Pest Alerts from Bonneville County – Eastern Idaho

Posted on: June 10, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert June 6, 2025 | Vol. 6, Issue 4
Coverage Areas: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, and Teton Counties
CURRENT PEST AND DISEASE ISSUES
Fire Blight Alert
Fire blight risk levels are Exceptional to Extreme across most of Eastern Idaho through mid-June.
High-risk management strategies:
Prune infected twigs and branches on dry days.
Disinfect tools between each cut using alcohol, bleach solution, or disinfectant wipes.
Apply antibiotics within 24 hours of a wetting event (rain or heavy dew) when blossoms are open.
Biological control products (e.g., Blossom Protect, Double Nickel) are recommended for resistance management and organic systems.
Codling Moth Management
Egg hatch timing is highly variable due to unusual weather patterns this spring. Spray timing depends on prior fruit damage and production system.
Conventional Orchards:
High damage history: Apply 2 sprays per generation (start with oil or insecticide).
Low damage history: Fewer sprays needed, often just 1 per generation.
Organic Orchards:
High damage history: 3 sprays per generation, spaced 7–10 days apart.
Low damage history: 2 sprays per generation.
Backyard Trees:
Treatment options include conventional (e.g., Triazicide, Sevin) and organic (e.g., Cyd-X, Neem oil, Spinosad) products. See page 7 for efficacy and timing.
Leafhoppers
Leafhoppers feed on plant sap, causing stippling and potential fruit damage.
Regular scouting is advised for sensitive crops like apples, pears, and grapes.
IPM strategies include monitoring populations and protecting beneficial insects.
FRUIT PRODUCTION NOTES
Alternate Bearing in Apples
Many apple varieties alternate between heavy and light production years.
In heavy crop years, thin fruits to reduce strain and encourage consistent yields next season.
Thinning also improves fruit size and reduces limb breakage.
PESTICIDE AND BIOLOGICAL OPTIONS FOR FIRE BLIGHT
Refer to the full table on page 5 for:
Antibiotic options (e.g., Oxytetracycline, Kasugamycin)
Biological products (e.g., Serenade, BlightBan, Regalia)
Copper-based sprays for pre-bloom or dormant application
UPCOMING HOME GARDEN TIPS WEBINARS - Check the PDF attached
View full schedule in the attached PDF or join online at:

» Pest_Alert_June_6_apple_wooly_aphid,_snake_fly.pdf

Beet Leafhopper Detected in Malheur County, Oregon

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Beet leafhoppers (Circulifer tenellus)

Posted on: June 9, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Beet Leafhopper Detected in Malheur County
Treasure Valley – Malheur County, Oregon
June 4, 2025
Pest Detected:
Beet leafhoppers (Circulifer tenellus), the insect vectors responsible for transmitting both Beet Leafhopper-Transmitted Virescence Agent (BLTVA) and Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV), were detected in all 12 fields surveyed during recent monitoring in Malheur County. These pathogens can cause significant yield and quality losses in potatoes and sugar, two economically important crops in the Treasure Valley:
Beet Leafhopper-Transmitted Virescence Agent (BLTVA) – causes purple top disease in potatoes
Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV) – affects sugar beets and other broadleaf crops
Identification:
Adults: Small (3.4–3.7 mm), wedge-shaped, pale green to yellowish, quick to fly when disturbed
Nymphs: Wingless, flattened, yellow-green with visible wing pads
Often found on broadleaf weeds and crop foliage
Symptoms of Infection:
Potatoes (BLTVA – Purple Top):
Upright, stunted plant growth
Rolling or curling of upper leaves
Purpling or reddening of leaves
Aerial tuber formation
Early vine death and reduced tuber yield/quality
Sugar Beets (BCTV):
Yellowing and thickening of leaves
Leaf curling and brittleness
Stunted plants; potential wilting or death in severe infections
Symptoms are most severe when infection occurs early in the growing season.
Scouting & Monitoring:
Use sweep nets or yellow sticky traps to monitor populations. It is important to deploy more than one trap per field and check them regularly. When the average catch rate approaches 40–100 per week, action may be warranted.
Begin scouting early, particularly during warm, dry spring conditions
Focus on field borders and areas with broadleaf weeds (e.g., kochia, mustards, Russian thistle) that serve as host plants
Management Recommendations:
Cultural Control:
Eliminate broadleaf weeds and volunteer crops along field edges and irrigation canals to reduce overwintering and early-season host sites
Avoid planting near known beet leafhopper overwintering zones when possible
Plant approved curly top-resistant varieties rather than relying solely on adult insect control
Maintain good field sanitation and monitor surrounding non-crop vegetation
Chemical Control:
Use neonicotinoid seed treatments for early-season protection
Choose insecticides with translaminar or systemic activity for improved efficacy
Group 4A and 3A products have shown the highest efficacy
Rotate insecticide groups to mitigate resistance development
Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
Combine cultural, chemical, and monitoring practices
Track regional pest trends to support timely and informed intervention
More Information
Contact: Russell Smith-Ollivierre | Agriculture Outreach Program Coordinator
Oregon State University
OSU Extension Service—Malheur County
710 SW 5th Avenue , Ontario, Oregon 97914
Tel:541-881-1417

First codling moth flight of 2026 detected in Latah County

General Landscape and Garden    Northern Idaho

Codling Moth

Posted on: May 8, 2026 by Samuel DeGrey

Multiple codling moths were captured in a monitoring trap in Moscow, Latah County, Idaho on May 6th, 2026.

The first detected flight date of May 6^th will serve as the biofix, or the date where we begin accumulating degree days, for Moscow, Idaho. Degree days provide an estimate for life cycle stages of insect pests, and can be a tool to better time management decisions for farmers, horticultural professionals, and gardeners.

Please visit our degree day dashboard to track degree days for codling moth in Moscow - https://pnwpestalert.net/gdd/index

Please consult the Pacific Northwest Pest Management handbook for degree-day based management recommendations for codling moth - https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth .

First apple codling moth flight of 2026 detected in Ada County

All Crops    Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Codling Moth

Posted on: May 8, 2026 by Sierra Laverty

First apple codling moth flight of 2026 detected in Ada County
Multiple codling moths were captured in a monitoring trap at Spaulding Ranch in Boise, Ada County, Idaho on May 1st, 2026.

May 1st will serve as the biofix for codling moth at the trapping site. Biofix is a specific, biological event used as a starting date for estimating the timeline of an insect’s lifecycle. An insect’s lifecycle is estimated using degree days (DD), which are units that measure how cold or warm an area is over time, based on if the average temperature is one degree above or below a specific base temperature. Adult codling moths were detected at 170 DD in Ada County. Please note that microclimates in the Treasure Valley are highly variable and your particular site may be colder or warmer than the monitoring site at Spaulding Ranch.

Management actions:
Thin fruit clusters to one fruit to reduce contact points between fruits now
Apply coverage insecticide sprays at 250 accumulated DD since May 1st or 420 total DD since January 1st. Another alert will be posted through PNW Pest Alert Network at that time.

To track degree days in the Treasure Valley, visit our website: https://pnwpestalert.net/gdd/index
Please consult the Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbook for degree-day based management recommendations for codling moth: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

What is codling moth? Codling moth is a key insect pest of apples and pears in Idaho. Left unmanaged, it can cause "wormy" fruit and significant crop loss.
Identification – Know the Signs & Symptoms
Stage
Identification
Adult Moth
Grayish-brown, 1/2 inch long, with a coppery-brown band at wing tips.
Egg
Tiny, flat, and translucent – laid singly on fruit or leaves.
Larva
Creamy white to pink caterpillar with a dark brown head – this is the “worm.”
Pupa
Formed in bark crevices or leaf litter in silken cocoons.
Symptoms on Fruit:
Small, dark entry holes ("sting") on the apple surface.
Frass (sawdust-like excrement) near the hole.
Tunnels inside the fruit leading to the core.
Premature fruit drop in severe infestations.

Current Monitoring & Degree Days:
Biofix (first moths detected): May 1
Current Degree Days (base 50°F): 262 DD as of May 8
Egg hatch begins: 220-250 DD

Management Options
Non-Chemical Options
Fruit thinning: Thin clusters to one fruit to reduce contact points between fruits.
Fruit Bagging: Bag individual fruits to block larvae entry.
Sanitation: Remove dropped fruit and prune trees to reduce overwintering sites.

Coverage Insecticide Sprays
When: Apply at 250 DD after biofix (420 DD total since January 1st, based on 2026 monitoring)
Action: Apply insecticides to kill newly hatched larvae before they burrow into fruit.

For insecticide options: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

All pesticides, including least-toxic alternatives, have benefits and potential hazards. You must read and follow the pesticide label for specific directions, paying close attention to the directions for use and application rates. Inconsistent use of a product or disregarding the label is a violation of both state and federal laws.

For season-long control: Codling moth has multiple generations per season. Continue monitoring traps and tracking degree days to time follow-up sprays and other control measures.
For more assistance, contact your local University of Idaho Extension office: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/directory/counties

» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/tree-fruit/apple/apple-codling-moth

» https://climate.usu.edu/includes/pestFactSheets/Codling-Moth.pdf

» https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/codling-moth-control-in-home-plantings-5-613/

Ag Talk Tuesday resumes for the 2026 season

All Crops    All Locations

Posted on: May 1, 2026 by Kasia Duellman

Save the Date: Ag Talk Tuesday – 2026 Season
Please mark your calendars for the 2026 season of Ag Talk Tuesday, hosted by the University of Idaho Extension. Sessions will be held from 11:00 AM to Noon (MDT) on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, May through August.
We’ll kick off the season on May 5 with a water update.
Each Ag Talk Tuesday session begins with approximately 30 minutes of informal crop reports led by UI Extension personnel. All attendees are encouraged to participate and share observations or updates. The second half of the session features a more structured presentation on a timely agricultural topic, delivered by a guest speaker. An Ag Talk Tuesday organizer facilitates each session to guide discussion, gather crop updates, and moderate questions for the featured presentation.
Registration is free but required.
To register, please visit the Ag Talk Tuesday website:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/events/ag-talk
Or register directly using this link:
https://uidaho.zoom.us/meeting/register/xJRvquC7T66Czb_qpW0A_A#/registration
We hope you can join us for a productive and informative season of Ag Talk Tuesday!
Sincerely,
Your Ag Talk Tuesday Organizers
Emily Bedwell (ebedwell@uidaho.edu)
Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu)
Doug Finkelnburg (dougf@uidaho.edu)
Juliet Marshall (jmarshall@uidaho.edu)

» https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/events/ag-talk

Stripe Rust Observed on Cheatgrass – Vigilance Advised for Wheat Fields

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Stripe Rust

Posted on: March 27, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

» Strip_rust_on_cheat_1.jpg

Annual Survey

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: March 26, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

We Didn’t Forget… We’re Getting Ready to Celebrate!
As we prepare to celebrate 25 years of the PNW Pest Alert Network, we want to hear from the people who made this journey possible — you!
Our Annual Survey is still open, and your feedback plays a critical role in shaping the future of pest alerts, GDD tools, and decision-support resources across Idaho and the Pacific Northwest.
Haven’t taken the survey yet? There’s still time!
Your input helps us:
Improve real-time pest alerts
Enhance GDD-based decision tools
Deliver more region-specific, actionable insights
Bonus!
Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a Lucky Draw, and winners will be announced during our 25-Year Celebration on May 20th!
Don’t miss out:
✔ Share your feedback
✔ Enter the lucky draw
✔ Be part of our milestone celebration
Take the survey today!
*Crop Subscribers - https://uidaho.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0BQQgjBpDHFSVNk
*Garden and Landscape Subscribers - https://uidaho.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cUXPcTHHBz4qQsK
Thanks for your time taking the survey!

Early Pest Detections - Codling Moth & Peach Twig Borer

Apple    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Codling Moth & Peach Twig Borer

Posted on: March 24, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

Pest Alert: Early Detection of Codling Moth & Peach Twig Borer
Location: Farmway & Karcher area, Treasure Valley, Idaho
Date: March 24, 2026
Backyard growers in the Farmway and Karcher area have reported early captures of key orchard pests in delta traps:
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella) – 1 adult captured
Peach twig borer (Anarsia lineatella) – 1 adult captured
These detections are earlier than typically expected, signaling that pest activity has begun in localized areas.
What This Means
This may represent early flight initiation (biofix approaching or beginning) for both pests.
Even low trap counts are important—they indicate the start of adult emergence.
Warmer early-season conditions may be accelerating development.
Recommended Actions for Growers
Deploy traps immediately if not already in place (especially in apples, pears, peaches, nectarines).
Check traps regularly (2–3 times per week) to monitor trends.
Record first consistent captures to establish a reliable biofix.
Begin tracking Growing Degree Days (GDD) for precise timing of:
Egg hatch (Codling moth)
Larval emergence (Peach twig borer)Why It Matters
Why It Matters
Accurate timing based on trap data + GDD allows for:
Improved spray timing
Reduced unnecessary pesticide applications
Better pest control and fruit protection
Stay Connected
Continue monitoring updates through the PNW Pest Alert Network for region-specific guidance and GDD-based recommendations.

Onion Growers Alert

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Cull Onion Disposal

Posted on: March 4, 2026 by Jemila Chellappa

Growers are reminded that the deadline to dispose of existing cull onion piles is March 15 to help prevent the buildup of onion pests such as onion maggot.
Key Requirements
All existing cull onion piles must be disposed of by March 15.
From March 15 to July 1, any new cull piles must be disposed of within one week of creation.
Proper disposal is essential to reduce pest development and protect nearby onion fields.
Management Options
If cull onions cannot be buried in a timely manner, piles may be treated with an approved insecticide labeled for cull piles or non-crop areas.
Approved options previously identified include:
Malathion products
Gowan Malathion 8 Flowable – EPA Reg. No. 10163-21
Malathion 5 EC – EPA Reg. No. 66330-220
(Malathion is generally the most economical option.)
Azadirachtin products
AzaGuard – EPA Reg. No. 70299-17
Ecozin Plus 1.2% ME – EPA Reg. No. 5481-559
Gowan Aza-Direct – EPA Reg. No. 71908-1-10163
Always read and follow pesticide label instructions before application.
Additional Regulations
In Malheur County, Oregon, no more than 80 tons of onion debris may be buried per acre.
State regulations related to onion maggot management and cull disposal can be found in the links below.
Additional Resources
Oregon rule: https://secure.sos.state.or.us/oard/viewSingleRule.action
Idaho rule (onion maggot section begins on page 8): https://adminrules.idaho.gov/rules/current/02/020605.pdf

» ODA Onion Maggot Cull Letter

» Pesticide Advisory Notice

» ISDA Cull Onion Brochure

Treasure Valley Onion School

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: December 19, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

» Treasure_Valley_Onion_Workshop_Revised.pdf

Pesticide Recertification Seminars

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: October 6, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Upcoming Treasure Valley Cropping Systems Seminars: Pests and Pesticides
When: Monday, October 20 & Thursday, October 23, 2025
Where: 1904 E Chicago Street, Caldwell Research and Extension Centre, University of Idaho Extension, Caldwell, Idaho
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM both days
The Treasure Valley Cropping Systems Pests and Pesticide Seminars bring together Extension specialists and regulatory experts to provide the latest updates on insect pests and pesticide regulations for Idaho growers, applicators, and agricultural professionals. Each day features two focused, one-hour sessions followed by Q&A, offering practical, research-based information to strengthen IPM practices, improve decision-making, and ensure compliance.
Cost is free/ Registration required https://forms.office.com/r/B6wWQ6Q0x8?origin=lprLink
Pesticide Credits: 4 (2 for each day)
Monday, October 20, 2025 – Insect Pests of Treasure Valley Crops
10:00–11:00 AM – Insect Pests and Their Management in Treasure Valley Crops
Speaker: Dr. Armando Falcon-Brindis, University of Idaho Extension
→ Focus on key insect pests, thresholds, and integrated management strategies.
11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Classical and Emerging Horticulture Insects & Pathogens in Idaho
Speaker: Bradley Stokes, University of Idaho Extension
→ Highlights on invasive and established pests, safe pesticide use, and IPM in home and commercial horticulture.
Thursday, October 23, 2025 – Pesticides & Regulations
10:00–11:00 AM – Understanding Pesticide Chemistry: From Mode of Action to Resistance Management
Speaker: Dr. Marcelo Dimase, University of Idaho Extension
→ Learn how pesticide chemistry connects with field management and resistance prevention.
11:00 AM–12:00 PM – Navigating Pesticide Regulations and Compliance in Idaho
Speaker: Blaine Sterling, Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA)
→ Review Idaho licensing, record-keeping, label interpretation, and compliance requirements.
Why Attend
Strengthen your IPM knowledge
Stay compliant with Idaho pesticide laws
Connect with Extension and ISDA experts
For more information or registration details, contact:
Jemila Chellappa, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor & Area Extension Educator – Cropping Systems
University of Idaho Extension, Southern Districts

» Oct 20 Seminar Flyer

» Oct 23 Seminar Flyer

Psyllid captures decline overall, one new Lso-positive – 11 September 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: September 11, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from 21 fields that we are monitoring. Most fields have undergone vine kill and/or monitoring on them has otherwise ceased.
• We captured a total of 11 psyllids across 3 fields.
• Captures were from Canyon and Twin Falls counties.
• Among the 17 psyllids captured last week, one tested positive for Lso.
This is our last week reporting psyllid captures. Next week we will report on Lso incidence in psyllids captured this week. Psyllid captures from this week were relatively low overall. One of the psyllids from last week tested positive for Lso; this was the first Lso-positive psyllid since early August. Lso incidence this year has been relatively high, but thankfully the relatively low abundance of psyllids should mitigate risk of ZC somewhat. Nevertheless, we encourage you to maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas that have had higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids earlier this season. Next week we will post an end-of-season wrap up.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Psyllid captures tick up, no new Lso – 28 August 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: August 28, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from 31 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 43 psyllids across 14 fields.
• Captures were from Canyon, Gooding, and Twin Falls counties.
• Among the 14 psyllids captured last week, none tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures ticked up this week in both the Magic and Treasure valleys. This is not entirely surprising given that psyllid abundance very often spikes during August, though captures had been tracking much lower over the past several weeks. Thankfully all the psyllids from last week tested negative for Lso. Some fields have undergone vine kill and will no longer be monitored. Early harvest also limited person-power for trap retrieval from some sites, so those traps will be retrieved next week. We encourage you to maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas that have had higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids this season.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Psyllid captures still low, Lso still present – 21 August 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: August 21, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from all 48 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 14 psyllids across 8 fields.
• Captures were from Owyhee, Canyon, Gooding, Jerome, and Twin Falls counties.
• Among the 12 psyllids captured last week, 1 tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures this week remained quite low, and one more Lso-positive psyllid was captured last week. Overall captures this year have been low to modest with relatively high prevalence of Lso. Thankfully the low captures should help to mitigate the potential risk of ZC that may come with high prevalence of Lso. Interestingly, we still have yet to capture a potato psyllid in the Upper Snake region this year. Please maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas with higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Psyllid captures lessen slightly, Lso is still present– 14 August 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: August 14, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from all 48 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 12 psyllids across 5 fields.
• Captures were from Payette, Canyon, Twin Falls, and Minidoka counties.
• Among the 24 psyllids captured last week, 2 tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures this week ticked down a bit from last week, and two more Lso-positive psyllids were captured last week. Overall captures this year have been modest with relatively high prevalence of Lso. Interestingly, we still have yet to capture a potato psyllid in the Upper Snake region this year. Please maintain your IPM programs, especially in areas with higher captures of Lso-positive psyllids.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert

All Crops    Eastern Idaho

Posted on: August 13, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

EASTERN IDAHO PEST ALERT
Serving Counties: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Power, and Teton
Date: August 8, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 13
Disease Spotlight: Fusarium Wilt
Cause: Soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum
Crops Affected: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, melons
Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, brown vascular tissue
Management: Resistant varieties, crop rotation, soil health, sanitation, biological controls, solarization, and avoiding overwatering.
Fall Tree & Shrub Planting Tips
Why Fall is Ideal: Cooler temps, more rain, and still-warm soil encourage root growth.
Key Practice: Root washing helps correct root deformities in container plants.
Tips: Dig wide (not deep), use native soil, water wisely, mulch properly, stake only if necessary.
Codling Moth Management
Timing: 2nd generation egg hatch in most areas has begun or passed. Continue protection through Sept. 15.
Spray Schedules: Vary by location and fruit damage history (see region-specific table on page 5).
Product Guidance:
Conventional options: Spectracide, Sevin, Malathion, Bonide, etc.
Organic options: Neem oil, Cyd-X, Spinosad, pyrethrin products.
Choose different products for each generation to prevent resistance.
Fireblight Control
When: Monitor symptoms ~2 weeks after full bloom; prune infected wood during dry weather.
Chemical Controls: Copper, lime sulfur, oxytetracycline, Actigard, etc.
Biological Controls: Include Streptomycin, Blossom Protect, Serenade Optimum, Regalia, and others.
Pruning Reminder: Always disinfect tools between cuts.
Upcoming Events
IDAHO HOME GARDEN TIPS:
Aug 12: Deer Proofing Your Yard – Sara Mahdavi @ 7 PM
Aug 19: Late Season Flowers – Andy West @ 7 PM
Aug 26: Dehydrating Your Harvest
Sept 9: Understanding Manures
Sept 23: Freeze Drying Your Harvest
PLANT TALK Q&A:
Ron Patterson & Reed Findlay – Aug 12 & Aug 19 @ 7:30 PM
Contact Info:
University of Idaho Extension – Bonneville County

» AUGUST 8, 2025| VOL. 6 ISS. 13

Reminder - Miller Research Potato Pest Management Field Day - August 20

Potato    All Locations

Posted on: August 12, 2025 by Jeff Miller

Come to the Miller Research Potato Pest Management Field Day on Wednesday, August 20. Registration begins at 8:30 with the field tour going from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Three ISDA pesticide recertification credits and three CCA IPM credits are available.
The cost to attend is $20 and lunch will be provided.

2025 marks our 50th anniversary! Come celebrate with us at the field day!

» https://millerresearch.com/event/2025-miller-research-potato-pest-management-field-day/

Reminder: Parma Field Day

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Posted on: August 11, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

2025 Field Day at Parma

University of Idaho Field Days - August 14 and August 21

All Crops    All Locations

General Announcement related to Agriculture

Posted on: August 5, 2025 by Kasia Duellman

Please mark your calendars for 2 upcoming University of Idaho Field Days:
August 14: Parma Field Day - Parma Research and Extension Center, 29603 U of I Lane, Parma Idaho
Registration is FREE and begins at 7:15 AM, with FREE breakfast
Tour begins at 8:00 AM and concludes at 11:30 AM
1 ISDA credit, 2 ODA credits, 2 CCA/CCU IPM credits
For more information, contact Dr. James Woodhall (jwoodhall@uidaho.edu) or Dr. Armando Falcon-Brindis (afalconbrindis@uidaho.edu)
August 21: Aberdeen Potato IPM Field Day - Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, 1693 S 2700 W, Aberdeen Idaho
Not just potatoes - topics also cover small grains, mustards, and more
Registration is FREE and begins at 8:30 AM
Tour begins at 9:00 AM and concludes at Noon, with a FREE box lunch
2 ISDA credits, and CCA/CCU credits will also be available
For more information, contact Dr. Kasia Duellman (kduellman@uidaho.edu)

Water Storage Options in Eastern Idaho

All Crops    Eastern Idaho

Posted on: July 28, 2025 by Juliet Marshall

The seminar will feature a keynote address by Senator Cook (30th District), a forecast for the groundwater-surface water agreement, presentations on and drone footage of water storage alternatives, and an expert panel discussion on the alternatives presented to answer your questions. Alternatives to increase storage include: Teton Dam, Ashton Dam, Lane Lake, Jackson Dam, Minidoka Dam, and Mud Lake. This year’s gathering is co-hosted with the Henry’s Fork Watershed Council, with sponsorship from the Bingham Groundwater District and the Snake River Headwaters Watershed Group.

Water Storage Options in Eastern Idaho
Date: Tuesday, August 19 from 8:30am–2:30pm (lunch provided)
Location: Romance Theater, 2 E Main St, Rexburg ID
We are currently investigating options for livestream, but cannot guarantee a live virtual format. Please prioritize in-person attendance.

RSVP required. Visit tinyurl.com/wateridaho. This will help us get an accurate estimate for lunch, catered by Blisters BBQ.
The agenda and meeting flyer are attached. Please circulate with those who might be interested. Please contact either Keith, Dean Mortimer, or Brad Buttars if your organization is interested in helping sponsor this important event.

Please don't hesitate to be in touch with questions. Hope to see you there!

Thank you,
Roger Warner, President
Keith Esplin, Executive Director
208.243.1824

Psyllid captures increase – 24 July 2025 update

Potato    All Locations

potato psyllid

Posted on: July 24, 2025 by Tasha Stanzak

• This week we received traps from 48 fields that we are monitoring.
• We captured a total of 38 psyllids across 13 fields.
• Captures were from the following counties: Payette, Canyon, Jerome, Gooding, and Twin Falls.
• Among the 13 psyllids captured last week, none tested positive for Lso.
Psyllid captures this week ticked up from last week and were slightly above what we have seen during this period in the last three seasons. This is not entirely surprising given the high temperatures, and captures are still not anywhere near our highest capture years. ZC risk still appears to be fairly low this year.
More information on management of potato psyllids and ZC can be found here:
https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/psyllid-management
To view the weekly data by site in the old spreadsheet format: https://tinyurl.com/potatopsyllid
Please visit the Idaho Pest Monitoring Dashboard, for graphical summaries of our psyllid captures from 2020 through 2025 and an archive of this year’s weekly updates as the season progresses: https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

» https://idahopestmonitoring.org/

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert - July 11, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 9

All Crops    Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

Posted on: July 16, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert - July 11, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 9
Coverage: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Power, and Teton Counties
Prepared by: University of Idaho Extension, Bonneville County
Editor: Ron Patterson
Featured Pest Alerts
Blister Mites (Phytoptus pyri, Eriophyes mali)
Host Crops: Apples, Pears
Symptoms: Brown, blister-like galls on upper leaf surfaces; stunted growth and early leaf drop in heavy infestations
IPM Tips:
Apply dormant oil sprays in late winter
Monitor with a hand lens during early spring bud break
Use sulfur dust or miticides post-bloom as needed
Encourage predatory mites and avoid broad-spectrum insecticides
Pollinator & Predator Spotlight – Painted Lady Beetle (Mulsantina picta)
Benefits: Natural predator of aphids, mites, and soft-bodied pests
Habitat: Conifers, meadows, and gardens
Conservation Tips:
Include native flowering plants and conifers
Leave mulch, bark, and leaf litter undisturbed for overwintering
Refrain from using broad-spectrum pesticides
Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella)
Current Stage: First and second generation overlap ongoing
Spray Guidance:
High-pressure sites: Follow Option A (insecticide) or Option B (oil + insecticide) and repeat every 14–18 days
Low-pressure sites: Begin at first egg hatch and adjust timing based on trap data
Backyard Options: Use products like Spinosad, Malathion, or codling moth virus (Cyd-X) based on label rates
Note: See full tables (pgs. 6–7) for region-specific spray dates from Burley to Driggs

Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora)
Symptoms: Blackened shoots resembling fire scorch; visible two weeks post-bloom
Management Tips:
Prune on dry days and disinfect tools between cuts
Apply protectants or resistance inducers during bloom (e.g., Actigard, Regalia)
Apply biologicals (e.g., Blossom Protect, Serenade) at bloom or post-bloom
Backyard Note: If no blooms are present, focus on sanitation and pruning
Webinars & Upcoming Events
July 22 – Chip Bud Grafting Fruit Trees – Bracken Henderson (7:30 PM MT)
July 24 – Plant Talk Q&A – Ron Patterson & Reed Findlay (7:30 PM MT)
August 12 – Deer Proofing Your Yard – Sara Mahdavi (7:00 PM MT)
August 26 – Dehydrating Your Harvest
Sept 9 – Understanding Manures
Sept 23 – Freeze Drying Your Harvest
Zoom Link: https://uidaho.zoom.us/j/92616335377
More Information: Check the Attached PDF
Contact:
Lena Allen
Horticulture Secretary
University of Idaho Extension – Bonneville County
1542 E 73rd S, Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 529-1390
bonneville@uidaho.edu
uidaho.edu/extension/county/bonneville
Facebook | Instagram

» Pest_Alert_July_11_2025_blister_mites_painted_lady_beetles.pdf

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert Summary June 20, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 6

All Crops    Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert

Posted on: June 27, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert June 20, 2025 | Volume 6, Issue 6
Coverage: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, Power, and Teton Counties
Prepared by: University of Idaho Extension, Bonneville County
Editor: Ron Patterson
Featured Pest Alerts
Raspberry Crown Borer (Pennisetia marginata)
Pest Type: Clear-winged moth
Damage: Larvae bore into crowns/roots, causing cane wilt, stunting, and reduced yield.
IPM Tips:
Remove infested canes in late summer/fall
Eliminate nearby wild brambles
Encourage plant vigor through irrigation
Nighttime insecticide sprays can help
Pollinator Spotlight – Golden-Haired Flower Longhorn Beetle
Species: Lepturobosca chrysocoma
Role: Beneficial pollinator and wood decomposer
Habitat: Flowers in meadows and forest edges
Conservation Tips:
Plant native wildflowers
Avoid broad-spectrum insecticides
Leave some deadwood for larval habitat
Fire Blight in Apples and Pears
Symptoms: Blackened shoots, “burned” look after bloom
Management:
Prune infected shoots on dry days
Disinfect tools between cuts
Apply copper or antibiotics before/after rain or dew
Note: Only spray if blossoms are still open
Codling Moth – 1st & 2nd Generation Spray Timing
Crops at Risk: Apples, pears
Egg Hatch Periods:
June 9–30: Burley, Preston
June 12–July 3: Idaho Falls, Blackfoot
July 2: Driggs (2nd gen)
Backyard & Commercial Tips:
Use insecticides or oils at night for best control
Follow region-specific timing tables
Rotate products between generations
UPCOMING HOME GARDEN TIPS WEBINARS
View full schedule in the attached PDF
More Information Contact:
Lena Allen
Horticulture Secretary
University of Idaho
Bonneville County Extension
208.529.1390
lallen@uidaho.edu
1542 E 73^rd S
Idaho Falls, ID 83404

» Pest_Alert_June_20_GoldenHaired_Flower_Longhorn_Beetle,_raspberry_crown_borer.pdf

Onion Thrips Activity Increasing in the Treasure Valley

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci)

Posted on: June 18, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Pest Alert: Onion Thrips Activity Increasing in the Treasure Valley
Crop: Dry Bulb Onion
Pest: Onion Thrips (Thrips tabaci)
Region: Treasure Valley – Oregon and Idaho
Onion thrips populations are increasing across the region, with presence confirmed in over 97% of monitored onion fields. In many of those fields, more than 80% of plants are now infested. Fields with more mature, larger plants are showing particularly elevated activity. Smaller, early-stage fields (3-leaf stage or younger) remain largely unaffected, but this is expected to change as the season progresses.
Thrips Identification & Lifecycle
Adult onion thrips are tiny (1–1.3 mm), slender, pale yellow to brown insects with fringed wings. Immature stages (called larvae or nymphs) are wingless and lighter in color. Thrips thrive in hot, dry conditions and reproduce rapidly, often completing multiple generations per season. Eggs are laid within the leaf tissue, and nymphs feed on sap, developing through several instars before pupating in the soil or leaf axils.
What to Watch For
Silvery streaks or flecking on leaves caused by feeding
Black specks (excrement) near feeding sites
Thrips concentrated in leaf folds, near the neck, or under tight canopies
Reduced vigor or curling of young leaves
Thrips infestations can reduce onion yield by 20% or more. While no significant signs of Iris Yellow Spot Virus (IYSV) have been confirmed so far this season, continued vigilance is important, especially as thrips numbers build. IYSV lesions appear as oval to diamond-shaped chlorotic or necrotic spots on leaves, reducing photosynthetic efficiency and negatively affecting bulb storage.
Management Recommendations
Coverage is Key:
As canopy density increases, spray coverage becomes more challenging. Increase spray volumes to ensure deeper penetration into the neck and inner foliage, where thrips hide.
Insecticide Strategy:
Systemic products (e.g., Movento) are effective by moving through plant tissues and targeting hidden feeding sites.
Translaminar products (e.g., Radiant) enter the leaf surface and reach thrips feeding on the undersides or inside folds.
Adjuvants: Use a penetrating adjuvant to enhance uptake and movement of active ingredients within plant tissue.
Cultural Practices:
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote lush growth and higher thrips populations.
Monitor weed presence, as weeds can serve as alternate thrips hosts.
Early planting and maintaining strong plant vigor can help plants tolerate feeding pressure better.
Resistance Management:
Rotate insecticides with different modes of action to delay resistance development. Always follow label directions and recommended thresholds.
Scouting Tips
Start scouting early and continue weekly, especially as plants reach the 5–7 leaf stage.
Sample at least five plants from four separate areas of the field.
Use hand lenses or beat plants over a white surface to count individuals.
Focus on inner leaves and the base of the neck.
Threshold: Begin treatments when thrips exceed 1–3 per leaf, depending on crop stage and environmental conditions.
Stay vigilant. Early and consistent management of onion thrips helps protect yield potential and reduce the risk of IYSV later in the season.
More management information here https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/vegetable-pests/hosts-pests/onion-thrips

This alert was prepared by Russell Smith Ollivierre, Oregon State University Malheur County Extension, with data contributions from Stuart Reitz, Oregon State University Malheur Experiment Station.

» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/vegetable/vegetable-pests/hosts-pests/onion-thrips

Strawberry Root Weevil Pupa

All Crops    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Eastern Idaho, Magic Valley, Northern Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Strawberry Root Weevil

Posted on: June 12, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Strawberry Root Weevil Alert – Be on the Lookout!
Found Strawberry Root Weevil pupae in Treasure Valley: The pupa of the strawberry root weevil (Otiorhynchus ovatus) is a transitional life stage between the larva and adult, typically found in the soil near the root zone of host plants. Here are the key characteristics:
Strawberry Root Weevil – Pupal Stage Characteristics:
Color: Initially creamy white; may turn light tan as it matures.
Shape: Soft-bodied, oblong, and slightly curved. The body is segmented and resembles the general adult form.
Size: About 5–7 mm in length, depending on species and development stage.
Visibility of adult features: The legs, antennae, and developing snout (rostrum) of the adult are visible but folded close to the body.
Habitat: Pupates in an earthen cell or cavity in the soil, usually close to the roots of infested strawberry or other host plants.
Duration: The Pupal stage generally lasts 2–3 weeks in spring (April–June), depending on temperature and soil conditions.
Mobility: Pupae are non-feeding and immobile.
Since pupae are hidden in the soil, they are rarely observed unless the soil is carefully excavated near the crown and roots of the plant. Refer to the attached file for a visual reference of the Strawberry Root Weevil Pupa
Strawberry root weevils (Otiorhynchus spp.) are common pests in strawberry fields across the Pacific Northwest. While adult weevils cause minor notching on leaves, the real damage comes from their larvae feeding on roots through winter and spring, leading to stunted growth, reduced yields, or even plant death in severe cases.
What to Watch For:
Notched leaves from adult feeding (visible in early summer)
Wilting or stunted plants from root damage
Adults hide under plant debris during the day or emerge at night
Now is the time to inspect your strawberry fields. Check for notched leaves, look under plant debris, or monitor at night for adult activity. Early detection is key to preventing egg-laying and larval root damage.
If you notice signs, consider control options including biological (entomopathogenic nematodes), cultural (soil cultivation), or chemical treatments applied at night for best results. More management information here https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/small-fruit/strawberry/strawberry-root-weevil
Stay alert and protect your berries!

» https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/small-fruit/strawberry/strawberry-root-weevil

» IMG_7517.jpg

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert June 6, 2025 | Vol. 6, Issue 4

All Crops    Eastern Idaho

Pest Alerts from Bonneville County – Eastern Idaho

Posted on: June 10, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Eastern Idaho Pest Alert June 6, 2025 | Vol. 6, Issue 4
Coverage Areas: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Cassia, Fremont, Jefferson, Madison, and Teton Counties
CURRENT PEST AND DISEASE ISSUES
Fire Blight Alert
Fire blight risk levels are Exceptional to Extreme across most of Eastern Idaho through mid-June.
High-risk management strategies:
Prune infected twigs and branches on dry days.
Disinfect tools between each cut using alcohol, bleach solution, or disinfectant wipes.
Apply antibiotics within 24 hours of a wetting event (rain or heavy dew) when blossoms are open.
Biological control products (e.g., Blossom Protect, Double Nickel) are recommended for resistance management and organic systems.
Codling Moth Management
Egg hatch timing is highly variable due to unusual weather patterns this spring. Spray timing depends on prior fruit damage and production system.
Conventional Orchards:
High damage history: Apply 2 sprays per generation (start with oil or insecticide).
Low damage history: Fewer sprays needed, often just 1 per generation.
Organic Orchards:
High damage history: 3 sprays per generation, spaced 7–10 days apart.
Low damage history: 2 sprays per generation.
Backyard Trees:
Treatment options include conventional (e.g., Triazicide, Sevin) and organic (e.g., Cyd-X, Neem oil, Spinosad) products. See page 7 for efficacy and timing.
Leafhoppers
Leafhoppers feed on plant sap, causing stippling and potential fruit damage.
Regular scouting is advised for sensitive crops like apples, pears, and grapes.
IPM strategies include monitoring populations and protecting beneficial insects.
FRUIT PRODUCTION NOTES
Alternate Bearing in Apples
Many apple varieties alternate between heavy and light production years.
In heavy crop years, thin fruits to reduce strain and encourage consistent yields next season.
Thinning also improves fruit size and reduces limb breakage.
PESTICIDE AND BIOLOGICAL OPTIONS FOR FIRE BLIGHT
Refer to the full table on page 5 for:
Antibiotic options (e.g., Oxytetracycline, Kasugamycin)
Biological products (e.g., Serenade, BlightBan, Regalia)
Copper-based sprays for pre-bloom or dormant application
UPCOMING HOME GARDEN TIPS WEBINARS - Check the PDF attached
View full schedule in the attached PDF or join online at:

» Pest_Alert_June_6_apple_wooly_aphid,_snake_fly.pdf

Beet Leafhopper Detected in Malheur County, Oregon

Sugarbeets    Treasure Valley, Treasure Valley - Idaho, Treasure Valley Oregon

Beet leafhoppers (Circulifer tenellus)

Posted on: June 9, 2025 by Jemila Chellappa

Beet Leafhopper Detected in Malheur County
Treasure Valley – Malheur County, Oregon
June 4, 2025
Pest Detected:
Beet leafhoppers (Circulifer tenellus), the insect vectors responsible for transmitting both Beet Leafhopper-Transmitted Virescence Agent (BLTVA) and Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV), were detected in all 12 fields surveyed during recent monitoring in Malheur County. These pathogens can cause significant yield and quality losses in potatoes and sugar, two economically important crops in the Treasure Valley:
Beet Leafhopper-Transmitted Virescence Agent (BLTVA) – causes purple top disease in potatoes
Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV) – affects sugar beets and other broadleaf crops
Identification:
Adults: Small (3.4–3.7 mm), wedge-shaped, pale green to yellowish, quick to fly when disturbed
Nymphs: Wingless, flattened, yellow-green with visible wing pads
Often found on broadleaf weeds and crop foliage
Symptoms of Infection:
Potatoes (BLTVA – Purple Top):
Upright, stunted plant growth
Rolling or curling of upper leaves
Purpling or reddening of leaves
Aerial tuber formation
Early vine death and reduced tuber yield/quality
Sugar Beets (BCTV):
Yellowing and thickening of leaves
Leaf curling and brittleness
Stunted plants; potential wilting or death in severe infections
Symptoms are most severe when infection occurs early in the growing season.
Scouting & Monitoring:
Use sweep nets or yellow sticky traps to monitor populations. It is important to deploy more than one trap per field and check them regularly. When the average catch rate approaches 40–100 per week, action may be warranted.
Begin scouting early, particularly during warm, dry spring conditions
Focus on field borders and areas with broadleaf weeds (e.g., kochia, mustards, Russian thistle) that serve as host plants
Management Recommendations:
Cultural Control:
Eliminate broadleaf weeds and volunteer crops along field edges and irrigation canals to reduce overwintering and early-season host sites
Avoid planting near known beet leafhopper overwintering zones when possible
Plant approved curly top-resistant varieties rather than relying solely on adult insect control
Maintain good field sanitation and monitor surrounding non-crop vegetation
Chemical Control:
Use neonicotinoid seed treatments for early-season protection
Choose insecticides with translaminar or systemic activity for improved efficacy
Group 4A and 3A products have shown the highest efficacy
Rotate insecticide groups to mitigate resistance development
Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
Combine cultural, chemical, and monitoring practices
Track regional pest trends to support timely and informed intervention
More Information
Contact: Russell Smith-Ollivierre | Agriculture Outreach Program Coordinator
Oregon State University
OSU Extension Service—Malheur County
710 SW 5th Avenue , Ontario, Oregon 97914
Tel:541-881-1417

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