From the Ground Up, Issue 85

Growers are reminded to report any grass weeds that appear unfamiliar or could resemble black-grass (Alopecurus myosuroides). Early reporting remains one of our strongest tools for protecting the industry.

Keep up with the latest fall armyworm updates for the 2024/25 season, including regional updates and cultural control options for FAW.  

Watch the recording for a webinar with FAR Senior Field Officer Ben Harvey on managing herbicide resistance pre-autumn sowing, covering what is herbicide resistance and methods to reduce the risk of herbicide resistance.

Find out regional information on Fall armyworm as of April 4 2025.

Seed and Grain Readiness and Response Incorporated (“SGRR”) is a biosecurity entity for the arable sector. It was established in 2020 under the Government Industry Agreement for Biosecurity (GIA). It is currently collecting levies to cover the costs of the two biosecurity incursions, black grass and fall armyworm. 

This arable extra discusses trial results from the 2024 herbicide screening trial at Kowhai Farm in Lincoln, Canterbury. 

Check out the latest fall armyworm update here. 

Current status: FAW populations continue to develop across New Zealand. Northland awaits the third main moth flight of the season, with the key time for scouting and decision-making approaching. Maize grain and sweetcorn growers should be particularly vigilant during this period.

Fall armyworm numbers continue to rise as the season progresses, with the top half of Northland in particular beginning to see levels that would require chemical intervention. Read more in this week's update.

FAW second generation begins. This update provides the latest regional findings, pest dynamics, and management recommendations.