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Fall Armyworm: signs and treatment in Jamaica
A devastating caterpillar pest that aggressively consumes the whorl of corn plants. PlantArmor's crop guides list fall armyworm as a common problem on corn.
Signs to look for
- Massive ragged holes in corn whorl leaves
- Large amounts of sawdust-like frass in the whorl
- Caterpillar with a distinct inverted 'Y' on its head
What to do
Crops it affects
Questions growers ask
How do I recognise fall armyworm?
A devastating caterpillar pest that aggressively consumes the whorl of corn plants. The signs to look for: Massive ragged holes in corn whorl leaves. Large amounts of sawdust-like frass in the whorl. Caterpillar with a distinct inverted 'Y' on its head.
What should I do about fall armyworm?
Apply a product whose label lists caterpillars, such as Xentari or Dipel DF (Bt), Match, Phoenix or Indicarb 14.5, directly into the whorl. Spray early in the morning or late evening. Always read the product label and observe the registered rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval before you apply any pesticide.
Which crops are affected by fall armyworm in Jamaica?
PlantArmor's crop guides list fall armyworm as a common problem on corn.
Check it in the field
The PlantArmor app works with no signal, so you can compare what you are seeing against its reference library standing in the plot, then log the spray you use along with its re-entry and pre-harvest intervals. Free to use.
This description and treatment come from the same reference library the PlantArmor app uses in the field. Pesticide registrations and permitted uses change — always read the current product label and observe the stated rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval.