Key Points
- Damage can start before maize emergence but mostly occurs after emergence.
- Typically maize seedlings are cut and felled.
- Each cutworm can destroy 2 - 5 plants, and adult female moths lay 600-800 eggs.
- Damage is worst after a short fallow, in weedy fields and on leeward side of shelter.
- Cutworm attack maize, sweetcorn, other cereals, grasses, many vegetables, lucerne, white clover and weeds such as docks and plantains.
- Poncho seed treatment can be used to give control.
- Scout crops regularly from emergence for damage and apply in secticide if required.
- Synthetic pyrethroid insecticides are most cost effective.