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  • Fall Armyworm Update 6 April 2023

Fall armyworm update 6 April 2023

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The fall armyworm response will end in two weeks time, and instead go into Long Term Management. This will be an industry-led management transition.

Key points:

  • As it has become apparent that fall armyworm (FAW) is unlikely to be eradicated in New Zealand, the fall armyworm response will end and instead go into Long Term Management on Friday 21 April. This will be an industry-led management transition.
  • To date there are a total of 139 confirmed reports of FAW across NZ.
  • FAW has been confirmed in North Canterbury sweetcorn, although in small numbers. A report on a sweetcorn crop from last year in a similar area has also been confirmed and added to the total confirmed reports.
  • The last few weeks have seen large moth flights in Northland, highlighting the name ‘FALL’ armyworm, where populations build up to potentially cause devastating damage to autumn crops.
  • Fall armyworm has been observed on ryegrass and clover in a harvested maize paddock. Therefore, it is important to stay vigilant and scout any neighbouring paddocks in the absence of maize and sweetcorn as fall armyworm may turn to other crops for a food source. Volunteer Maize should not be overlooked either. Mulching or grazing any regrowth could be a good option to reduce some FAW numbers.
  • We are still in a response. All finds must be reported to MPI here or call 0800 80 99 66
  • The insecticide Sparta® is now on label for both aerial and ground applications for the control of Fall Armyworm on maize and sweetcorn crops. Consult with your advisor.
  • Avoid the use of insecticides that are ineffective on fall armyworm and potentially harmful to beneficial insects such as parasitic wasp Cotesia sp. which will help contain the numbers.
  • There are no negative consequences to growers for reporting, as this pest will not be controlled by removing crops.

Check out the latest episode of FAR's podcast Cut The Crop for more information on the new management phase.

Listen here. Watch here.

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Photo: Fall armyworm life cycle, courtesy of MPI. Find the factsheet here.

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