As seen in “Words to Grow By”…
March of the Winter Cutworms Affects Small Grains, Alfalfa
In Traverse City and surrounding areas, Hamilton Agronomists have seen significant damage in small grain and alfalfa fields from Noctua pronuba caterpillar or winter cutworm feeding, a recent pest invasion in Northern Michigan. The feeding was most significant in November when temperatures when temperatures were above normal (daytime highs of about 45 degrees or above). The cutworms would strip alfalfa leaves to the stem and clip small grains right down to the soil. Hamilton Agronomists are concerned about both winter injury due to this fall damage, as well as possible damage early this spring before overwintering larvae pupate. Hamilton Agronomist Terry Schulz says, “We don’t know for sure to what extent spring damage may occur. However, we strongly encourage farmers to scout their small grain and alfalfa fields early and often this spring and be prepared to control these pests. For more information and pictures, see these articles from MSU extension:
(Photo Michigan State University)