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Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Caterpillars, maggots, grubs, and similar immature insects - Larger than 3/4 inch long > Black cutworm

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Black cutworm

Agrotis ipsilon

Black cutworm

Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org

Black cutworm

Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota

Description: Up to 2 inches long.

Where/When: Feeds on a wide range of vegetables such as asparagus, bean, cabbage and other crucifers, carrot, celery, corn, lettuce, pea, pepper, potato, and tomato. Active from May through August or September.

Significance: Plants, especially seedlings, are damaged and usually killed when they are cut at or slightly above or below the soil line. Most damage in gardens occurs during spring.

More information on Black cutworm

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