Velvetbean caterpillars
We have these in our peanut fields now along with loopers right now. See comments from Dr. Mark Abney. Velvetbean caterpillars (VBC) have become abundant in Georgia peanut fields over the last 10 days. Growers that do not have a scout or consultant should check their fields for infestations TODAY. Over the course of the last week I have seen fields stripped to bare stems and have heard of caterpillar counts up to 15 larvae per foot of row. While there is usually a mix of species, VBC has been the predominant caterpillar in most fields -(Abney) .
Peanut Maturity
16 HO; 120 days old checked last Friday Aug 18
