Fall armyworm damage maize plants and cause total crop loss however integrated management practices reduces infestation.
Maize scouting, early treatment and use of environment safer insecticides are some of practices for high yields and increased incomes. The larvae stage is the most destructive stage however do not scout after spraying as this may affect health. Always avoid border rows.
Scouting fall Armyworm
Look for leaf damage caused by larvae these are pin sized holes on leaves, frass, bigger larvae, bores in side maize ears.
Scout in W pattern, 5 metres from edge and stop at every 5 locations this should be done early when maize emerges.
Look between 10 – 20 plants and at each of 5 locations and record plants looked at and damaged plants.
At early stage record damaged seedlings and at late stage examine newest 2 – 4 leaves from whorl.
Record damaged plants out of 10 – 20 per location and if 4 out of 10 plants are damaged, ask extension agent if treating is worth.
