Crop Scouting Report May 8, 2026

By Samantha Daniel

Nebraska Extension Crops & Water Educator

Winter Wheat

The condition of winter wheat throughout Perkins, Chase, and Dundy counties is variable, although every field I’ve scouted is showing some signs of freeze injury from the recent cold temperatures. These signs include yellowed/browning leaf tips, snagged wheat heads that break out of the side of the boot, and pale/bleached wheat heads. Further information on evaluating freeze injury in wheat can be found at https://cropwatch.unl.edu/assessing-freeze-injury-wheat/ 

In addition to freeze injury, wheat stem sawfly is beginning to emerge. Sawfly larvae tunnel through the wheat stem and eventually girdle the stem, leading to lodging. This pest has been confirmed in Perkins County and has been found in Dundy (confirmed) and Chase (confirmation pending) this year. Sawfly numbers so far have ranged from 0 to 31 sawflies per 100 sweeps with a sweep net. While these numbers are still below the threshold for significant damage from lodging, sawfly emergence can last through June. 

Alfalfa

Alfalfa has also suffered some freeze injury although most of what I have seen is primarily restricted to the top leaves which has less of a negative impact on growth. Severe damage can lead to a delay and reduction in the first cutting and make plants more susceptible to disease.

Alfalfa weevil is active throughout the area, with higher infestations in established alfalfa stands. In fields with weevil, infestation rates from 0.06 to 1.1 larvae per stem have been found (based on total number of larvae collected divided by a 30 stem sample size). Thresholds for alfalfa weevil depend on hay values, growth stage (height), and cost of treatment. More information can be found here: https://cropwatch.unl.edu/lookout-alfalfa-weevil-emergence-and-scouting/ 

For more information or if you have questions, please contact Samantha Daniel at sdaniel3@unl.edu