The Minnesota Soybean and Research Council has funded a study at the University of Minnesota to look at the relationship between buckthorn density and soybean aphid populations. The long-term goal is to look at treatment and control of buckthorn to see if that will reduce soybean aphid populations. Remember the soybean aphid overwinters on buckthorn plants. Buckthorn was imported from China as an ornamental shrub. Buckthorn is a very aggressive invasive plant that is now common in forests, woodlands, and hedge borders.

The University of Minnesota is looking for soybean growers who have at least 10 acres of woodlands that they own or that is public owned right next to a soybean field. Researchers will determine the buckthorn density and soybean aphid populations during the growing season. If you would like more information or have some woodland infested with buckthorn, contact Dr. Marcella Windmuller-Campione at (612) 624-3699 or email mwind@umn.edu.

 

 

 

 

 

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