Velvetbean Caterpillar Damage
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.
