And crops that have gotten rain are prime targets for an anticipated pest invasion. Despite heavy rains in southeast, central and south Texas from the two tropical storms that hit this summer, Anderson noted the rest of the state has remained bone dry. The tally could climb unless more rain blankets the state, particularly drought-stricken West and North Texas. Winter wheat planting on the state's northwestern plains has been largely stymied by the dusty conditions. Despite rains elsewhere, a predicted infestation of fall armyworms could reduce yields if growers aren't vigilant.
Early detection is key because small larvae are much easier to control than large larvae.
Producers should also look at getting some protection with insecticides before plant stands are killed or greatly reduced. Fall armyworms can cause serious damage in one to two days before the damage is even noticed. Hoelscher recommends that farmers diligently inspect their fields for the night-feeding larvae. The worms, combined with the drought, not only threaten grain farmers but also cattle raisers whose herds rely on wheat crops for grazing during the winter. Approximately 1 million acres of winter wheat in the rolling plains between San Angelo and Childress could be drought-impaired.