Black Cutworm and Armyworm Moths Are Early Arrivals in 2012

The mild winter experienced throughout the midwest has affected the arrival of our early season moths. Recent reports of both armyworm and black cutworm adults throughout the state signal an early arrival of the caterpillars. The first order of business for these moths is to mate and lay eggs.
Golf course superintendents and athletic field managers are advised to pay close attention to moth activity, current temperatures, and future weather conditions as they begin to search for caterpillars and associated feeding damage. The decision to treat should be based on this scouting activity, caterpillar damage and the potential threat of cutworms and armyworms to sensitive turfgrass areas.