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Pest & Disease Library · Solutions

Natural Armyworm and Cutworm Control in Vegetables

Armyworms and cutworms chew vegetable foliage and sever young seedlings at the soil line, capable of clearing patches of a stand overnight. They feed at night and hide by day, so scouting and timing matter.

Common crops affected

Why it matters

They can destroy stands of seedlings and strip foliage fast, so early larval control prevents the worst losses.

When to act

Scout at dusk and act on young larvae before they grow and disperse.

What to look for

  • Seedlings cut off at the soil line
  • Ragged, rapid defoliation in patches
  • Larvae hiding in soil/debris by day
  • Frass near damaged plants

How to manage it

  1. Scout at dusk; clear weedy harbourage.
  2. Apply Larva Control at the start of larval activity; rotate with Larva BioControl.

Recommended Vegalab program

A registered Vegalab encapsulated insecticide for caterpillars — see the Product Finder; zero PHI and zero REI.

RoleProductUse
Primary controlLarva ControlBroad-spectrum natural larvicide
Rotation partnerLarva BioControlBiological larvicide

Product claims, rates, and availability vary by jurisdiction; always follow the applicable label.

Frequently asked questions

Why treat in the evening?

These caterpillars feed at night — evening timing improves contact with active larvae.