The Department of Agriculture and Forestry is advising grain farmers that armyworms have been detected in the East Point, Cavendish, Freetown and Elmsdale areas of the province. Although not widespread, the insect can cause significant damage to grain crops if unchecked. A number of areas across Prince Edward Island were affected last year, and the department has initiated a monitoring program this growing season.
The department is advising growers to begin scouting for armyworms by the second week of July.
The adult armyworm is a pale brown/gray moth with a white dot in the centre of each forewing. Newly hatched larvae are pale green and move in an "inchworm" motion. They are rarely seen during the day, and trapping of adults can be used to detect their presence. Since they primarily feed at night, it is best to scout in the early morning or late evening during overcast days.
Sampling different areas of the field will determine the possible extent of damage. If infestation or damage is found on half of the plants, a control treatment is recommended. If the infestations is limited, these areas should be spot treated. If the grain is nearing maturity and there is no evidence of head clipping, or the larvae are fully grown, treatment is not recommended.