Very low cutworm densities, less than 1 cutworm per 20 feet of row, can cause significant damage. Large larvae can consume several plants each night and, if present in large enough numbers, can completely destroy a sugar beet stand in only a few nights. Management Chemical options for control Several insecticides are registered for cutworm control in small grain, alfalfa, sugar beet and canola. For the most current list of registered insecticides, refer to the High Plains Integrated Pest Management Guide for Colorado, Western Nebraska, Montana and Wyoming, Bulletin No. 564A, or to your local county Extension agent. However, tillage is not compatible with no-till and conservation tillage production systems.
Insectivorous birds are the most common vertebrate predators feeding on larvae.
References Burton, R. L., K. J. Starks and D. C. Peters. The army cutworm. Oklahoma State University Agric. Jacobson, L. A. 1971. We encourage the use of this document for non-profit educational purposes.