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

Black cutworm

Agrotis ipsilon

Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org

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.

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