April 30, 2014

Monitor vineyards for cutworms and flea beetles during bud swell growth stage
Time spent monitoring vineyards for cutworms and flea beetles can avoid costly pest damage.

Posted on April 29, 2014 by Rufus Isaacs, Michigan State University Extension, Department of Entomology

Bud swell of grapes is being reported in Southwest Michigan, and I have seen wild grape buds starting to reveal some green tissue this week (as of April 29, 2014). This means we are approaching the time when growers should monitor for cutworms and flea beetles, two early season pests that can feed on buds and limit crop yield. There are good rules of thumb for deciding whether damage from these insects warrants control, and information on scouting and other management components from Michigan State University Extension is provided here.

Terence Bradshaw, UVM Tree Fruit and Viticulture Specialist

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The UVM Tree Fruit and Viticulture Program is supported by the University of Vermont Agriculture Experiment Station, a USDA NIFA E-IPM Grant, and USDA Risk Management Agency Funds.