Keep up with the latest fall armyworm updates for the 2024/25 season, including regional updates and cultural control options for FAW.
Current status: Fall armyworm (FAW) populations continue to be detected across New Zealand. However, with the exception of later planted maize and sweetcorn crops, the overall risk from FAW this season has likely passed. Adult moths are still being captured in pheromone traps, indicating continued presence in the environment. In the absence of preferred host plants such as maize and sweetcorn, it is important to remain vigilant by scouting C4 grasses and other potential host crops, as FAW may shift its feeding behaviour to alternative hosts.
Preferred crops: Now that preferred host plants such as maize and sweetcorn are largely absent from the landscape, adult FAW may seek alternative hosts. They are polyphagous, known to feed on over 350 plant species. However, they are most likely to favour other C4 grasses if available. Remain observant and report any suspected FAW activity.
Crop monitoring: Scouting for and managing volunteer maize and sweetcorn is critical. Observations of FAW infestations on volunteer plants have already been reported from several regions around the country. These volunteers can serve as important green bridges for sustaining FAW populations through the off-season.