Cutworm
|
Cutworm  Various nocturnal moth caterpillars are grouped under the general name of cutworm. These soil living larvae tend to be fat and will curl up as a “C” when disturbed. They may be yellow, brown, or green with dark markings. Cutworms feed at night, and can be found at almost any time of the year, both outdoors and within the greenhouse.Life Cycle- The entire development from egg to adult requires more than 45 days. Larvae hatch in 5 to 10 days after eggs are laid. Cutworm larvae pass through six instars and require 28 to 35 days, depending on temperature, to become mature larvae. The larvae enter the pupal stage, which lasts 12 to 15 days. Adult cutworms emerge, mate, and lay eggs on surrounding vegetation. This cycle continues until the first frost, and three or four generations are produced each year. Susceptible Plants- Young vegetable plants, especially lettuce and brassicas, also carrot, celery, beets, potato, and strawberries. Symptoms- Stems of seedlings and young plants eaten through at ground level. Roots, corms, tubers, and leaves may also be damaged by cutworm. Prevention and Control- Cultivate infested soil in winter to expose caterpillars to predators, or allow chickens to scratch it over. Keep ground weed free, as weeds provides sites for egg laying. In the green house soak the soil thoroughly, then cover and leave overnight. This will bring cutworms to the surface, where they can be picked up and removed. On a small scale locate caterpillars in soil or feeding on plants at night, and destroy. Protect susceptible plants with a collar- such as a cardboard or plastic tube, or tin can with the base removed- pushed down into the soil around the plant. Biological Control- Apply Beneficial Nematodes - S. Feltiae
|
|
