Damage from this pest occurs in spring and is limited to extreme western Kansas. Outbreaks usually are associated with a series of dry winters. Loose soil is preferred for oviposition, and late-cultivated, summer-fallowed fields are especially attractive to egg-laying moths. Clusters of eggs are laid in the soil in the fall and hatch in early spring. Whitish larvae feed below ground, severing plants and leading to dead spots in the field.
This insect tends to stay underground, so observations will need to be made using a shovel to expose any larvae.
Control measures are justified when two or more larvae per square foot are found. Consider higher rates of registered insecticides when populations are high.
None listed.
This content may not be suitable for states other than Kansas.
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