Armyworm and Black Cutworm Update

Growers should be aware that the potential for armyworm problems over the coming weeks is high, much more than in other years. To our south, Kentucky has reported extremely large collections of adult armyworm moths. According to their reports, these have been the highest captures they have recorded. These moths are also being captured in Ohio in relatively high numbers. With these higher moth collections, growers should be aware that the potential for problems this spring from armyworm larvae is high. Growers should be concerned and thus, they should begin sampling wheat, grass pastures, corn adjacent to wheat fields, and corn planted in rye cover crops. This last scenario is especially important because we often see entire corn fields heavily damaged when grass cover crops are used. Reports have been received of black cutworm cutting corn plants as they emerge from the soil, including in seed treated fields. Please let us know of any outbreaks of either of these pests.

Information for control of armyworm can be found at: http://ipm.osu.edu/ib/w-4.htm

Information for balckcutworm control can be found at: http://ipm.osu.edu/ib/c-2.htm