Success StorySugarcane aphid comes to Bell County



Sugarcane aphid comes to Bell County

Author: Stacy White

Planning Unit: Whitley County CES

Major Program: Commercial Horticulture

Plan of Work: Achieving financial stability in homes and community

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Sugarcane aphid is a new pest of sorghum in the U.S.; it was first reported in Texas in 2013 and reached Fulton County, Kentucky in 2015.  This aphid builds up rapidly on sorghum and can kill plants through removal of plant sap with its piercing-sucking mouthparts.  Their numbers can double every 1 1/2 days.   In late summer of 2017 sweet sorghum growers in Bell County realized there was a problem.  Their cane fields were turning purple and dying. After field visits the ANR agent confirmed the presence of large numbers of sugarcane aphids.  The crop was a total loss.  Syrup production was greatly reduced and the final product was inedible.  All investment in the crop was lost.  In response to this situation growers participated in a sorghum production workshop at UK's RCARS center.  Preparations have been made to protect the next crop.  A private pesticide applicator training will be held for growers.  Scouting techniques will be followed closely.  The ANR agent worked with the Bell County Farm Bureau to secure funding for the  purchase of a backpack mist sprayer for producers to use during the upcoming season.






Stories by Stacy White


Chicken Processing Class.

about 2 years ago by Stacy White

Food insecurity issues have caused many people to want to become more self sufficient in regards sup... Read More


Southeast Kentucky Sheep Producers Association Predator Management Workshop

about 2 years ago by Stacy White

The market for lambs and sheep has grown in recent years and shows signs of continued growth. Severa... Read More


Stories by Whitley County CES


Earth Day Celebration 2022

Earth Day Celebration 2022

about 2 years ago by Lisa Jones

Whitley County 4-H Cloverbuds met in February and learned about the importance of vegetables and how... Read More


Cloverbuds Growing for Earth Day

Cloverbuds Growing for Earth Day

about 2 years ago by Lisa Jones

Whitley County 4-H has added another club to its agenda. The Cloverbuds met for the first time in Fe... Read More