Which insect is a major alfalfa pest, damaging crowns and stems in spring?

• A. Potato leafhopper
• B. Alfalfa weevil
• C. European corn borer
• D. Colorado potato beetle

Answer: (A)

Alfalfa weevil is the major alfalfa pest in spring because its feeding directly targets the growing point at the crown. Adults survive winter and lay eggs on alfalfa stems as growth resumes. When the larvae hatch, they tunnel into the crown and feed on meristem tissue, causing tip dieback, stunted regrowth, and, in severe cases, stand thinning or loss. This crown and stem damage is a hallmark of alfalfa weevil injury in spring, which is why it best fits the scenario. The potato leafhopper mainly causes foliage damage like yellowing and leaf curling, not crown/stem injury, and the European corn borer and Colorado potato beetle are pests of other crops, not primary alfalfa crown and stem pests.