With rain expected in some areas of the region, fall armyworm infestations may develop in pastures and hayfields.
“The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, is a common pest of bermudagrass, sorghum, corn, wheat and rye grass and many other crops in north and central Texas. Larvae of fall armyworms are green, brown or black with white to yellowish lines running from head to tail. A distinct white line between the eyes forms an inverted “Y” pattern on the face. Four black spots aligned in a square on the top of the segment near the back end of the caterpillar are also characteristic of fall armyworm. Armyworms are very small (1/8 inch) at first, cause little plant damage and as a result infestations often go unnoticed. Larvae feed for 2-3 weeks and full grown larvae are about 1 to 1 1/2 inches long. Given their immense appetite, great numbers, and marching ability, fall armyworms can damage entire fields or pastures in a few days.”
Attached is information on management of fall armyworm in pastures and hay from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office and an updated list of labeled insecticides. McGregor General Store can get any of the insecticides listed. Give us a call at 254-840-3224 for more information.
Source: Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center