One of the insect problems now starting to increase due to the drought in South Dakota is spider mites in soybeans. SDSU Extension Field Entomologist Adam Varenhorst says recent extreme heat and continued dryness has led to that increase in spider mites.

He says when producers notice discoloration on the soybean plant it’s time to treat for the spider mites. Varenhorst says once the leaves turn brown and fall off, then it’s too late.

Varenhorst says having even a minimum amount of rain would help in dealing with the spider mites.

Varenhorst says the window for treating spider mites is starting to close as in another week or so, it’ll be past time to get that done.