Cutworms in roots – alert

12 June 1998

Cutworms in roots – alert

ROOT crop farmers are warned to be on the alert for high levels of cutworms, the caterpillars of several common varieties of moth.

"The weather patterns for this year indicate that infestation levels could be very high," says James Knight of Dow AgroSciences. "The next few weeks are crucial because warm, humid evenings provide excellent mating conditions for the moths."

"Preventing caterpillars from reaching the roots is key to securing crop quality and yield. Apply an insecticide while caterpillars are still feeding on the leaves for the best results," he says.