Netting or row covers are more effective.
The problem with this recommendation is that without weeds, moths are forced to lay their eggs on crops in some situations, weeds are the preferred hosts. Weed before planting, within the crop area and at the borders.If possible, avoid planting the crops listed as hosts in land that has been in pasture for a long time.If possible, avoid planting into fields with a history of cutworms.NATURAL ENEMIES Natural enemies are not well known, although a number of wasps are recorded attacking cutworms, and there are predatory beetles. Spread of the moth occurs on the wind it is a strong flyer, with migrations noted in several parts of the world (Asia, Indonesia, the Middle East and North America) where populations have suddenly appeared and disappeared. Moths are brownish, wingspans of 40-55 mm, with kidney-shaped spots and dagger-like markings on the forewings (Photos 3&4). Plants may be dragged into tunnels made in the soil, and eaten during the day.Įggs are white, dome-shaped, 0.5 mm diameter, laid in groups of 30 or more on the host plants, grasses, other weeds and debris the larvae go through 5-6 moults and when mature are grey, greyish brown or black, up to 45 mm long. They have a narrow light strip along the back, and shiny black spots scattered over the body (Photos 1&2). The larvae curl up when disturbed (Photo 2).
They cut through stems just above soil level if the soil is moist if the soil is dry the larvae chew into the plants below ground, and often the plants wilt and die. The caterpillars (larvae) do the damage. Young larvae feed on the plant and make holes in the leaves, older ones hide in the soil or in plant remains, and feed at night.
0 kommentar(er)
