What are the little green worms? This intriguing question often arises when encountering these tiny, crawling creatures in gardens, lawns, or even in the wild. These little green worms, also known as cutworms, are notorious for their ability to damage plants, particularly seedlings, by cutting them off at the soil level. Understanding their habits, appearance, and control methods can help gardeners and homeowners protect their beloved green spaces.
Cutworms are the larvae of several species of moths, such as the armyworm and the true armyworm. They are named for their voracious appetite and their habit of cutting off plant stems. These worms are typically green or brown, with a body length ranging from 1 to 2 inches. They have a cylindrical body, a pair of prominent jaws, and no legs on the middle segment of their body. Their presence in a garden can be devastating, as they can quickly decimate a crop or a lawn.
One of the most common cutworm species is the black cutworm, which is known for its preference for feeding on corn and wheat. Another well-known species is the armyworm, which is particularly destructive to crops such as soybeans, cotton, and sorghum. The larvae of these pests are active at night or during the early morning hours, which makes them difficult to spot and control.
To identify a cutworm, look for a freshly cut, clean plant stem lying on the ground. The plant’s roots may be visible, but the base of the stem will show no signs of fraying or damage, which is characteristic of other types of worm damage. Another way to determine if you have a cutworm problem is to examine the soil for small, green worms that are 1 to 2 inches long.
Controlling cutworms is essential for the health of your garden or lawn. Here are some effective methods for dealing with these pests:
1. Barriers: Use barriers such as cardboard, aluminum foil, or a product called “paper collar” around the base of susceptible plants. This will prevent the worms from reaching the stems.
2. Biological Control: Encourage beneficial insects such as birds, toads, and certain parasitic wasps that feed on cutworms. Additionally, nematodes can be used as a biological control agent to kill the worms.
3. Chemical Control: In severe cases, you may need to use insecticides. Apply these products according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as overuse can harm beneficial insects and the environment.
4. Cultural Practices: Rotate crops to disrupt the life cycle of cutworms. Also, avoid planting susceptible crops in the same area year after year.
Understanding what the little green worms are and how to manage them is crucial for maintaining a healthy garden or lawn. By implementing these control methods, you can protect your plants from the devastating effects of these tiny, yet powerful pests.
