Taking an environmentally sensitive approach to pest management
Although wheat fields and some fescue fields required insecticide applications for true armyworm larval infestations, numbers of larvae have dropped as beneficial insects and pathogens take their tolls. The potential for true armyworm infestations still exists in some areas of the state. However, most larval infestations have been limited by natural pathogens. Producers should continue to monitor wheat and fescue fields and grass pastures for 2-3 more weeks, or until larvae have pupated and moths for the second generation appear. Typically, only first generation true armyworm larvae attacks fescue, grass and wheat fields with generations 2-3 moving to turf, vegetable and ornamental crops to feed.
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REVISED: February 29, 2012