TABLE OF CONTENTS (links are to the website of The Bulletin)

Insect Management Research Under Way
With the favorable weather, the corn insect research trials are under way, with experiments on managing corn rootworms to follow. All useful data will be shared in future issues of the Bulletin

First Intense Capture of Black Cutworm Moths
As corn emerges, scout for black cutworm injury. The rule of thumb for treatment continues to be 3% to 5% cutting. Guidelines are provided for judging the severity of damage.

Corn Flea Beetles Feeding on Seedling Corn
After the warm winter, corn flea beetle survival could be high in most areas of Illinois. Scout early-emerging corn for early-season insect pests. Insecticides for control of flea beetles in corn are listed.

Soybean Aphids: Impact of Soil Potassium and Overwintering Temperatures on Population Dynamics
Research continues to reveal new knowledge about soybean aphids since their appearance in the U.S. in 2000. The results of several studies are outlined.

European Researchers Investigate the Influence of Maize Roots and Subsequent Infection Rates of Western Corn Rootworm Larvae by Nematodes
Information from Europe suggests the need to reconsider the use of biological control for western corn rootworms in North America.

Weed Species of Interest
Annual bluegrass, poison hemlock, and butterweed all may be taking off in fields that have not been tilled or treated with herbicide. Their physical and growth characteristics are detailed.

Planting Progress and Issues
Corn: Planting remains on pace with 2004 and well ahead of average, but it's the weather after the crop is up and growing that most affects yield differences from year to year. Soybean: Recent research indicates that it is more important to choose top soybean varieties based on yield record than to try to adjust maturity depending on when planting takes place.

Challenges for Alfalfa Growers
Problems are being reported in alfalfa fields throughout the state, from the southern counties to the northern areas.

Regional Reports
Reports are provided this issue for northern, southern, and west-central Illinois.