Spider mites have been showing up in greater numbers in Minnesota than last year. University of Minnesota Extension Integrated Pest Management Specialist Bruce Potter says this year’s drought has led to an increase in spider mite pressure.

He says it’s getting close to being too late to treat for spider mites given the development of the soybean crop.

Potter says another insect that has popped up has been gall midge, although the drought has limited those populations.

Potter says producers should keep an eye on their fields and watch for any diseases that may have shown up. He’s heard some reports of Sudden Death Syndrome in soybeans and some cases of Top Die Back.