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Ohio State University Extension

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Don’t Let Your Guard Down On Fall Armyworm, Just Yet

Fall Army Worm Caterpillars

Last week, we discussed the possibility of a cold snap limiting any future fall armyworm outbreaks. We did have some fairly low temperatures last week—most areas had 40 to 60 straight hours of temperatures below 65oF (this was the temperature when mortality significantly impacted fall armyworm larvae).  Today, several OSU extension educators have noticed a very large number of adult moths caught in our expanded trap network.  As adults are migratory (often flying with winds in the atmosphere), they may be more cold-tolerant than the larvae, so it may not be surprising to still see some moths.  However, we do not yet know how the cold snap affected the larvae.  Fields should continue to be scouted for the presence of fall armyworm larvae at least for this week and likely until we get a significant frost.  Check alfalfa, forage, cover crops, winter wheat, and even turf for damage and small larvae.  As we get closer to the winter, we want to protect against any further damage that could compromise winter survival and regrowth in the spring.

Crop Observation and Recommendation Network

C.O.R.N. Newsletter is a summary of crop observations, related information, and appropriate recommendations for Ohio crop producers and industry. C.O.R.N. Newsletter is produced by the Ohio State University Extension Agronomy Team, state specialists at The Ohio State University and the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC). C.O.R.N. Newsletter questions are directed to Extension and OARDC state specialists and associates at Ohio State.