Farms.com Home   News

Pest Alert: True Armyworm

By Bruce Potter

Scout any corn planted into a rye cover crop for armyworm now! The first true armyworm infestation in corn has been reported in south central Minnesota. These larvae survived the heat wave. 

wave

Winter rye is a magnet for armyworm, but dense, lodged grasses, including cereals, may also be attacked.  Mowing roadside or ditch hay may actually drive larvae into susceptible grass crops. 

There have also been scattered reports of poor performance of pyrethroid insecticides on large armyworm so check control after treatment. Remember that chlorpyrifos is no longer labeled for use. A diamide insecticide or diamide mix are options for control.

Source : umn.edu

Trending Video

Residue Management

Video: Residue Management

Residue Management conservation practice manages the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the soil surface year-round while limiting soil-disturbing activities used to grow and harvest crops in systems where the field surface is tilled prior to planting. This video explores how Ryan McKenzie implemented this conservation practice on his farm in Samson, Alabama.

Practice benefits:

• Increases organic matter

• Improves air quality

• Decreases energy costs

• Reduces erosion

• Improves soil health

The Conservation at Work video series was created to increase producer awareness of common conservation practices and was filmed at various locations throughout the country. Because conservation plans are specific to the unique resource needs on each farm and also soil type, weather conditions, etc., these videos were designed to serve as a general guide to the benefits of soil and water conservation and landowners should contact their local USDA office for individual consultation.