Get ready to scout for cutworms

Abstract

<p>The black cutworm is an occasional pest of corn, yet it deserves our attention because of its potential for causing economic damage. Two significant flights of black cutworm adults (moths) were observed in parts of Iowa on April 11-13 and on April 18-20. The date that moths arrived indicates that eggs <em>may</em> have been laid in Iowa fields. Trap catch data were reported from cooperators in Iowa State University Extension's pheromone trap network. We have taken the distribution of moth captures across Iowa and coupled it with actual and projected degree-day accumulation, and present a potential first cutting dates forecast across Iowa.</p>