Caterpillar pressure varies among crops and regions in South Florida, according to the most recent South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline.
Respondents in the Everglades Agricultural Area report most worm pressure on sweet corn is low, but lesser corn stalk borers are moderate in some sandy areas.
Credit: John Capinera, UF/IFAS
Caterpillar pressure is low around the southwest Florida area, though there appears to be an increase of southern and beet armyworms, melon worms and some loopers were found.
Melon worms and pickleworms are moderate in some fields in the Homestead, Florida area. Fall armyworms are increasing in corn, while beet armyworms have been observed at low numbers in pepper.
Growers and scouts also report that the group 28 diamide insecticides are not providing control as long as they previously have.
Click here to learn to how identify certain caterpillars and what management options are recommended.