- Yellow striped armyworm caterpillars were widespread over the state and at times abundant earlier this year. Now, at least in some areas there seems to be a large flight of yellow striped armyworm moths, which may portend another significant larval population in July and August.
- Black cutworm moths are flying now which means that their caterpillars will also be feeding on plants in July and August, as well.
Yellow striped armyworm caterpillars were widespread over the state and at times abundant earlier this year. Now, at least in some areas there seems to be a large flight of yellow striped armyworm moths, which may portend another significant larval population in July and August. This moth is a general plant feeder in the caterpillar stage and will feed on most vegetable crops. Usually the caterpillar is dark or black with prominent yellow strips on either side of the body. There is an oval black spot highlighted above the yellow stripe on either side of the body near the head. In Cape May County the armyworm caterpillars found there were lighter (greenish-brown) in color while still having the yellow striping and black oval. Scouting of crops is needed to detect this caterpillar.
Black cutworm moths are flying now which means that their caterpillars will also be feeding on plants in July and August, as well. Black cutworm feeds primarily on root crops and the underground portions of stems. They do not climb like some other species of cutworms do and are active primarily at night. During the daylight hours the caterpillars can be found in the soil at the moisture line, often near the plant that they have been feeding on.
Joe Ingerson-Mahar
