Between May 4 and May 10, 19 trap sites reported a total of 39 black cutworm moths captured in traps (Figure 1). There were no additional significant flights during the week (Figure 2).

Using historical temperature data from the Midwest Regional Climate Center database, Table 1 shows the current projected cutting dates in counties that have had a significant flight. 

Over the last week, there was a lot of field activity across the state—planting, spraying, rotary hoeing, and fertilizer applications. Early planted corn and soybean fields have emerged, but there are concerns about soil crusting impacting emergence and stands. Insect activity is starting to increase, with reports of alfalfa weevil larvae and cutworms.

Early-season field conditions can set the tone for the entire growing season. Two common soil issues that can limit early crop development are soil crusting and sidewall compaction. While they look different in the field, both restrict crop establishment and early root growth, reduce early vigor, and can make crop stress symptoms show up sooner and more severely.