Insect Pests

Fall armyworms are so named because they appear in fall in the North, migrating upward with warm weather from their winter shelter in Florida. Sounds familiar! - University of Georgia Archives, www.insectimages.org

This white butterfly with a black spot on the wings is the adult imported cabbageworm; when you see it hovering around the garden, look out for its green caterpillars. - David Adams, University of Georgia, www.insectimages.org

Southern armyworm is a pest in the South feeding on beets, black-eyed peas, cabbage, carrots, collards, eggplant, okra, peppers, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and watermelon. - Ronald Smith, Auburn University, www.insectimages.org

When you find clusters of armyworm eggs (on the underside of the leaves), smash them. - David Jones, University of Georgia, www.insectimages.org

Armyworms attack in large numbers, like an army. Because most species feed at night, you can wake up to considerable damage, especially to young corn and other small vegetable plants.

There are several types of armyworms, but all have one thing in common: they have big appetites. When they hatch, the tiny larvae crawl like inchworms, eating leaves to fuel their rapid growth. They vary in shades of yellow, green, gray, and brown, depending on the species and their age.

It is important to control armyworms while they are still small and easier to kill. You can protect plants with sprays of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) applied according to label directions. This is especially important if you have had armyworm problems in the past. For other products that might be recommended in your state, contact your local Extension agent.