Larvae hide under debris or on the ground during the day and feed on the plant at night. These dates may not apply in your area. You may wish to contact your county extension agent or agricultural consultant for information tailored to your locality. Scouting is recommended in Kentucky from the time the corn emerges until the plants are waist-high. Field edges should be checked first.
Check leaves for signs of damage and examine the ground for dark fecal droppings.
Armyworms feed during late afternoon, night and early morning, starting at the edge of a leaf and feeding in towards the midrib. During the day armyworms will often hide under surface litter or in soil cracks. Examine 20 plants per location. Select sample sites so that the entire field is covered. Use a 4 foot X 4 foot square to sample each site.