Armyworms are the larvae of moths and can be found in many different regions around the world. They are called armyworms because they move in large groups, or “armies,” and can cause significant damage to crops.
To identify armyworms, look for small green or brown worm-like insects that are about 1-1.5 inches long. They have a dark line running down their back and may have small tufts of hair along their body. You may also notice holes or chewed areas in the leaves of your plants.
To treat armyworms, you can use a variety of methods, including:
Handpicking the worms and disposing of them
Using a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a bacteria that is toxic to armyworms
Applying insecticides that are labeled for use against armyworms
Recovering from an armyworm infestation may take some time, as it may take a while for the plants to fully recover from the damage. Keep monitoring the plants for further infestation and take appropriate action if worms reappear. Crop rotation, planting trap crops, and good farm management practices can also help to prevent future infestations.
