This information was summarized from a May 1 teleconference with ISU Extension field specialists in crops.

• Farmers in most areas of the state have planted more than 75 percent of their corn acres. Areas of the northeast, east central, and southwest have less than 60 percent planted. Soybean planting is typically 25 percent completed with a few areas up to 50 percent planted. Dry soil conditions in the northwest and in some south central counties are causing concern.
• Established alfalfa and new seedings are generally looking good this spring. Alfalfa weevils are at economic threshold in some fields (see article in April 24 ICM newsletter). Pea aphids have been reported in alfalfa (mainly in the northwest) and some fields are being treated. Bean leaf beetles are present in alfalfa fields but are not causing damage. They will move to soybean fields when the crop begins to grow.
• Black cutworm adults (moths) have been captured in pheromone traps during the last several weeks and cutting dates for this pest have been determined (see map on page 62).
• White grubs, wireworms, and billbugs in corn were reported, but not at economically damaging levels. Several fields in the southwest were treated for flea beetles last week.
• Preemergence herbicides are being applied.