HPIPM:Carrot Webworms and Cutworms

Author: Whitney S. Cranshaw and Michael J. Brewer

Taxonomy

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Arthropoda
Subphylum	Hexapoda
Class	Insecta
Subclass	Pterygota
Infraclass	Neoptera
Superorder	Holometabola
Order	Lepidoptera
Superfamily	Noctuoidea
Family	Erebidae
Subfamily	Arctiinae
Tribe	Spilosomini
Genus	Hyphantria

Scientific Name

Hyphantria cunea

Common Name

fall webworm

Identification (and life cycle/seasonal history)

The immatures of various species of moths may occasionally become abundant in carrot. The moths are typically about one inch long and fully grown larvae are about 38 millimeters (11/2 inch) long. Larvae may feed on the underground stem and foliage. For several of the species, larvae overwinter half-grown in the soil and ground litter.

Plant Response and Damage

The feeding activity of larvae of various species of moths may occasionally result in unacceptable defoliation and stem cutting.

Cultural Control

Larvae of several of these species may become abundant in early season weeds along field edges and move into the field as the weeds dry down or are defoliated. Therefore, consistent weed control along field edges will reduce the larval population.

Chemical Control

When damage is noticed, a close inspection of the entire field will help determine the extent of the damage. At times, populations of these larvae will be limited to field edges, in which case an insecticide application can be selectively applied.

Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the sponsors of this web site assume no liability for the suggested use of any chemicals noted in the management section. Contact your local pest management personnel for current information on labeled pesticides that can be used for the intended plant disease, insect pest or weed.