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First IL cutworm cutting projected this week

The Illinois Agricultural Pest Survey coordinator says farmers could start seeing black cutworm damage this week. 

Kelly Estes tells Brownfield there are signs of infestation.

“You could be seeing something as small as what we call pin hole feeding, little holes in the leaves.”  She says, “You can see feeding on the edges of leaves, and of course, cutting of plants. Cut plants and missing plants are big indicators of black cutworm in a field.”

The cutting dates are determined by growing degree units calculated from when the adult moths are trapped. 

Estes says the active weather pattern has led to numerous flights reported across the state.

“As these fronts move through, the moths can drop out at any time, so you can see some areas that have lots of repeated flights.”  She says, “We’ve seen that just south of the Rend Lake area. We’ve seen it up near Ford and Iroquois County, and then also Hancock County.”

She says the drawn-out planting season can also lead to an increased risk from the insects.

“We have varying stages of corn that is up.”  She says, “There are fields that still have yet to be worked, and from now through the beginning of June, I think the potential is there for black cutworm feeding in in all the areas of the state.”

Estes encourages farmers to thoroughly scout emerging corn fields, and to follow best management practices if cutworms are found.  

AUDIO: Kelly Estes – coordinator of IL Ag Pest Survey