This field is in Northern Garfield Co. The picture was taken on 6/16/11. Notice how the area bordering the wheat field has died. Chinch Bugs migrate out of winter wheat as it dries down searching for a green growing host. They really prefer to feed on grain sorghum (milo) and Johnson Grass which is also a sorghum.

Chinch Bugs typically feed in the whorl of the plant at this growth stage. They inject toxins into the milo plant that will eventually kill the plant if not controlled. Since they are protected in the whorl of the plants it is difficult to get insecticides in contact with the pest. This is the reason we are required to spray at least 20 gallons per acre to get the insecticide into the whorl.

Dead milo plant caused by Chinch Bug feeding.

If you are planning to plant milo soon please take all precautions to prevent this pest from invading your fields.
1) Check patches of Johnson Grass bordering your field for infestation of chinch bugs.
2) Plant Gaucho or Poncho treated seed
3) Add a quality insecticide ie. Mustang Max to your herbicide treatment to kill any chinch bugs that may be in your fields

If you have milo planted and are concerned about this pest and would like to have your field scouted; contact your local WB Johnston location and we will make arrangements to inspect your milo fields.