Alfalfa Breed Showing Promise Against Pest

Taylor Hillman Field & Row Crops

Courtesy: UCCE Hairy alfalfa comparison

Courtesy: UCCE
Hairy alfalfa comparison

There has been one unique success for combating leafhoppers killing alfalfa crops in southern California.

Alfalfa Breed Showing Promise

Managing huge populations of leafhoppers in southern California can be difficult. Chemical treatments also kill the natural defenses of the pest. However a random test of a different varietal, hairy alfalfa, has proven to show zero affects of the bug. Cooperative Extension Entomologist Dr. Vonny Barlow says researchers aren’t exactly sure why the varietal is working.

Hear more of the leafhopper series:
Alfalfa Pests Killing Southern CA Crops ->
Leafhopper Management has Little Options ->