Symptoms
Sawflies feed in the hollow stems of wheat and other cereals, usually above the 1st node below the head. They cause white heads and flagging. Often an emergence hole is in the stem above the node. Sawfly damage can lead to stem breakage or lodging prior to harvest. Montana growers have reported significant economic losses, but this pest has not been particularly problematic in Washington.
Prevention
Tillage has been shown to reduce wheat stem sawfly survival. Trap crops such as barley, oats, and rye near wheat fields may also attract sawflies and reduce damage to wheat. Finally, planting wheat in large blocks, as is typical in much of Washington may reduce sawfly damage because sawflies are weak flyers and will not reach the center of fields.
Management
Cultural controls are the most effective form of management. In Colorado, insecticides have not proven to be highly effective for sawfly management.