The shell is smooth and bears no visible markings. The wingspan of the forewing can range between 1.25- 2 inches (32-51mm). The marking can also be described as a dart below a kidney-shaped spot. There is a dagger-shaped marking on the adult’s wings (Figure 1). The black cutworm moth is a mottled brown. IDENTIFICATION AND SEASONAL BIOLOGY Adult This feeding makes it a common pest of golf course putting greens and tees. However, the larvae also feed on turfgrasses, causing notable damage on closely mowed turf. The species is a well-known pest of corn, cutting the stalks at the base without consuming the rest of the plant. Larvae are the damaging stage adults feed only on nectar.

The black cutworm has four to five generations in the southern-most states, three to four in the transition zone, and 2 to 3 generations in the most northern parts of its range. The black cutworm’s range encompasses the entire continental United States but varies seasonally, as this species does not tolerate colder temperatures. The moth species Agrotis ipsilon is commonly known as the black cutworm, but is sometimes referred to as the Dark sword-grass (larvae) or the Ipsilon dart (adult). For information on turfgrass identification, weed, disease, and fertility management, visit the Purdue Turfgrass Science Website () or call Purdue Extension (888-EXT-INFO). This publication provides turfgrass management professionals and golf course superintendents in Indiana and throughout the Midwest with information to help them 1) properly identify the black cutworm, 2) understand black cutworm biology, 3) recognize black cutworm damage, and 4) formulate safe and effective black cutworm management strategies. If you want to view as pdf, click here HOW TO USE THIS PUBLICATION Turfgrass Insects MANAGING BLACK CUTWORMS IN TURFGRASSĭouglas Richmond, Turfgrass Entomology Extension Specialist and Jacob Realey, Undergraduate Student

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