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How to Manage Pests

Pests in Gardens and Landscapes

Pest identification and confirmation—Cutworms

Here are three common cutworm species:

Black cutworm
Black cutworm

The black cutworm is greasy gray with several black bumps or tubercles on each segment. This species may tunnel beneath the soil, dragging parts of plants with it.

 Varigated cutworm
Variegated cutworm

Cutworms frequently roll into a C-shape when disturbed.

Granulate cutworm
Granulate cutworm

The granulate cutworm may vary in color but is lighter than the black cutworm and does not tunnel into the soil.

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