How to Manage Pests

Cutworms

Cutworms are dull-colored caterpillars ranging in length from 1 to 2 inches when fully grown. The color and markings of their bodies blend well with the soil, where they are frequently found, especially during the day.

Life cycle

Damage

Damage to grapevines occurs from bud swell to when shoots are several inches long. Buds are eaten out and new shoots are eaten partway through. Injured buds may fail to develop canes or clusters, which can cause yield reduction.

Solutions

Cutworms are pests only in the spring. Vines usually outgrow this damage. Pesticides are not very effective and not recommended for backyard grapes. Working grasses and weeds into the soil in fall or early winter destroys many eggs and young larvae. Do not destroy weeds at budbreak because this will drive cutworms onto vines.

Cutworm feeds at night on a bud

Cutworm damage to bud