Cutworm

Cutworms are the larvae of several species of night-flying moths. They overwinter in the soil either as pupae or mature larvae. In early spring the larvae pupate and adults appear by mid-March. Adults are active early in the evening and at night. Females lay eggs which hatch in 3 to 5 days, and the larvae develop in 3 to 4 weeks. Expect as many as four generations in South Carolina.

Adults and larvae hide during the day and emerge at night to feed on the stems and blades of grasses and other plants. Damage to turfgrasses is seldom serious unless high populations are present. Most damage usually goes unnoticed except on very closely mowed turf such as golf greens. Cutworm damage will show up as areas of clipped grass often surrounding a visible hole in the ground.

Control: Most lawn grasses can tolerate damage. Insecticides are available.