Early Season Insects

Cutworm damage on Dutch Iris

Farmers have had some great weather as they work on getting this year’s crop in the ground.  

Producers also want to be aware of some early season insects that could pose some problems. 

Provincial Insect Specialist Scott Hartley says there are already signs of diamondback moths and cutworms.

"We have already had some reports of cutworms," says Harltey. "We will see down the road what the climatic conditions will do to affect these cutworms. But, it is one that people should be watching for - both below ground feeding and above ground feeding."

Hartley says with the high cutworm numbers this year, producers are being asked to submit samples.

Cutworm projects have been set up across the prairies to determine the various species and how best to handle them.

Hartley says the key to protecting the crop throughout the growing season is to get out of the truck and walk through the field, looking for any potential insect concerns or other signs of stress on the crop.