Fall armyworm control options
Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, is a highly invasive pest that was detected in north Queensland in January 2020. It has the capacity to travel long distances relatively quickly and has recently been found in NSW.
A detailed description of fall armyworm and the biosecurity implications of this pest is available in this bulletin from Vinehealth Australia.
While fall armyworm feeds preferentially on grass-type crops, many plants are susceptible, including horticultural crops. There is potential for fall armyworm to spread into grapegrowing regions; however, the development and behaviour of this insect in vineyards is not yet known.
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority has a broad range of chemical classes listed under permit for use against fall armyworm in grape production (shown in Table 1 below, along with the recommended restriction on use for export wine).
Prior to applying a chemical treatment, growers are required to regularly scout crops to monitor for eggs and larvae. Treatments should be applied when pests appear, targeting eggs at the time of hatching or small larvae (prior to third instar stage) before the pest becomes entrenched. Permits should be read and instructions followed prior to spraying.
For more information please contact Marcel Essling on 08 8313 6600 or email helpdesk@awri.com.au.
This information is provided to inform the Australian grape and wine sector and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any product.
Table 1. Chemical control options for fall armyworm in wine-grape production.
| Fall armyworm | ||||
| Active constituent | Activity group | Some registered products | Restriction on use for export wine | Permit number |
| methomyl | 1A | Electra 225, KDpc Metho, Landrin 225, Lannate L, Lymo 225, Methomyl (225, 225 SL), Nudrin 225, Pirate, Seneca (Ultra 400SP), Sinmas 225 | Not recommended on grapes destined for export wine. Contact your winery prior to any methomyl application. | 89293 |
| chlorantraniliprole | 28 | Altacor Hort | Use no later than E-L 25, 80% capfall. | 89259 |
| spinetoram | 5 | Delegate | Use no later than E-L 31, berries pea-size (not > 7 mm diameter). | 89241 |
| spinosad | 5 | Entrust Organic | 89870 | |
| emamectin | 6 | Energise, Proclaim, Proclaim Opti, Warlock | Use no later than E-L 31, berries pea-size (not > 7 mm diameter) AND do not use within 56 days of harvest. | 89263 |
| indoxacarb | 22A | Avatar, Incarnate 300 WG, Indoxacarb 300WG, Lepta 300 WG, Persona 300 WG, Spymaster 300WG | 89278 | |