Weekly Crop Update

Seedcorn Maggot can damage newly planted seeds by chewing into them and feeding on the inside often leaving empty shells and causing poor germination and low population counts. As of March 4, 2023 in Georgetown the total Growing Degree Day (GDD) was 96 with a base unit of 50 degrees F. Adults that have overwintered are active now. Fields with heavy cover crop and poultry manure are ideal for flies to lay their eggs. It is important to have an insecticidal seed treatment especially if you’re planting within the next three weeks.