I’ve had calls about cutworms and slugs this week.  You can see my comments about slugs in last week’s post (link here).  However, the most common question has been on armyworms in wheat.  Calls have varied from low populations, but some with head clipping, to high populations that have caused severe defoliation.  The picture below is that of near complete defoliation, including the beards of wheat, from Crockett County.

Much of our wheat is in the soft dough or dough stage.  At this time, treatment is generally recommended only if head clipping is observed and armyworms are still present.  Consider treating if more than 2% of heads are clipped, and if you elect not to treat, pay close attention to the field.  Obviously, you should pay special attention to fields where armyworm populations are high.  For wheat still in the milk stage, treat when 6 or more larvae are present per square foot.  Relatively low rates of pyrethroid insecticides typically work well.  Refer to the UT suggestions for specific products and rates in the insect control recommendations for wheat.