BeneficialBeet armywormNot recommended
Bt (kurstaki) for beet armyworm
Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki · microbial insecticide
Against beet armyworm
Although the DiPel DF label lists beet armyworm, Kentucky Extension says most Bt formulations are not effective against it. UC IPM names Bt subspecies aizawai as the effective strain, best on newly hatched larvae. A standard Bt kurstaki garden product is the wrong choice for this pest.
RateNot recommended — use Bt subspecies aizawai (XenTari) instead
Timing—
macro · bt (kurstaki) on beet armyworm
The pestBeet armywormSpodoptera exiguaSkeletonised leaves, then holes in leaves and fruitFull pest profile →Before you order
A bacterium sprayed on leaves. Caterpillars that eat it stop feeding and die within a few days. It works only on the larvae of moths and butterflies, and has little or no effect on bees, lady beetles, lacewings or parasitic wasps. How it works, how to tell it has established and the supplier list are on the full Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki profile.
Other controls for beet armyworm
- Braconid waspsWild parasitoid · wild, attract it
- Orius insidiosusPredatory bug · 1–2 /m² per release; up to 10 /m² on hot spots