Cutworms in Onion Farming: Identification, Damage, and Control with Onion Doctor
Are you in need of in-depth knowledge on onion and garlic production? If yes, we are a call away. Our service chatter includes: Onion seedlings, Garlic seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack and Farm management. For free consultation, placing orders or booking a visit with an agronomist, please contact us via Call or what’s app +254703982228, Email: Info@oniondoctor.co.ke. What Are Cutworms? Cutworms, particularly the Black Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon), are destructive pests that attack onion crops. These nocturnal caterpillars belong to the Noctuidae family and feed at night while hiding in the soil during the day. Cutworms are notorious for cutting young onion seedlings at the base, leading to significant crop losses if left unchecked. Signs and Symptoms of Cutworm Infestation Cutworm damage can be devastating to onion crops. Look out for the following symptoms: Cut-off Seedlings – Young onion plants are severed at or just below the soil surface, causing wilting and plant death. Patchy Damage in the Field – Infestations often appear in irregular patches, with some areas showing complete plant loss. Missing Plants – Severe infestations can wipe out entire rows or sections of onion fields. Presence of Larvae – During the day, cutworms hide in the soil near damaged plants. When disturbed, they curl into a C-shape under the soil. Soil Disturbance – Slight mounds or loose soil around the base of affected plants indicate cutworm burrowing activity. What Causes Cutworm Infestations? Several factors contribute to cutworm outbreaks in onion farms: 🔹 Black Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon) – The most common species affecting onions, though the Variegated Cutworm (Peridroma saucia) can also be problematic. 🔹 Weedy Fields & Poor Sanitation – Weeds and plant debris provide shelter for cutworm larvae. 🔹 Over-irrigation – Moist conditions favor cutworm activity and survival. Impact of Cutworms on Onion Farming Crop Loss – Cutworms feed on seedlings, leading to poor plant stands and early crop failure. Reduced Yields – Severe infestations result in fewer onion plants, reducing overall harvest potential. Increased Costs – Farmers may need to replant fields, leading to higher production costs. How to Prevent Cutworms in Onion Farming Onion Doctor recommends the following preventive measures to protect your crops from cutworm damage: Scouting & Monitoring – Regularly inspect fields for cutworm symptoms, especially during early plant growth. Field Sanitation – Remove weeds, plant debris, and volunteer crops that may harbor cutworm larvae. Crop Rotation – Rotate onions with non-host crops to disrupt cutworm life cycles. Tillage Practices – Plow or cultivate fields before planting to expose and destroy cutworm larvae and pupae. Irrigation Management – Avoid excessive moisture, as cutworms thrive in damp conditions. Cutworm Treatment: How to Control Cutworm Infestations If cutworms are already damaging your onion crop, consider these control methods: Chemical Control – Use insecticides when pest populations exceed economic thresholds. Recommended options include: Cultural Controls – Strengthen farm practices to reduce cutworm risks: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Combine cultural and chemical controls strategically to reduce environmental impact and prevent pesticide resistance. Onion Doctor supports small holder farmers across Africa with quality and affordable Onion and Garlic seedlings, Onion seedlings, Farm planning services, Soil testing, Drip irrigation installation and maintenance, Agronomic support, Onion and Garlic value pack, Farm management, E-extension and on-farm training for farmers to optimize on yields and get maximum profits. Need expert help managing your onion farm? Contact Onion Doctor today for tailored agronomic support and farm solutions!