Table 1 will compare the alfalfa weevil and the clover leaf weevil. Both and alfalfa weevil and clover leaf weevils feed on first cutting alfalfa as larvae, and regrowth of the first cutting as adults. While research conducted in northeast Nebraska has shown that clover leaf weevil larvae feeding does not cause yield reduction to first cutting alfalfa, alfalfa weevil feeding can cause severe losses to yield and quality of the first cutting. Comparison of Alfalfa Weevil to Clover Leaf Weevil. It is essential that fields be monitored for alfalfa weevil feeding now.
Damage consists of small holes and interveinal feeding on the newest leaflets near the stem tips.
These legless worms have black heads and a white stripe the length of the back. The alfalfa weevil larvae spend nearly all their time on the plant. They curl into a C-shape when disturbed. Average the number of weevil larvae per stem. Use the following charts to aid you in making a decision on whether to control alfalfa weevils.