Velvetbean Caterpillar Present

scouted Sept. 21, 2023

Background
Soybeans were scouted at the R5 growth stage and intensive widespread defoliation was observed across the field.
Conclusion
This injury was confirmed by an NC State Extension Specialist as damage from Velvetbean Caterpillar. Larger velvetbean caterpillars have a voracious appetite and fields are sometimes stripped of foliage. In this environment the threshold of 30% defoliation was reached. Other symptoms along with defoliation can include pod clipping. Management practices include an application of almost any class of insecticide at a low rate, along with regularly continued scouting.

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