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An entomologist with the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received multiple reports that fall armyworms have made their way into the state.

Sebe Brown who is an Extension specialist and researcher at UT says armyworms only really have presence in pasture grasses such as hay.

Though the population of armyworms are larger than last year’s, crops and produce are not of concern at this time and local row crop farms as well as residential lawns are likely to be only slightly impacted.

Estimates given by the UT Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology say that rates of the pests should remain significantly lower than that of 2021 when the worms negatively affected row crops and turf grass.

“We are just not seeing the numbers like we did a couple seasons ago. Yes, they are present in Tennessee, but the current trends are nowhere reflective of what we have seen in the past,” said Brown.

“It is important that homeowners are aware but react appropriately.”

Lawn treatment options that are available at local lawn and garden stores are not preventative, only needing to be applied if worms are already inhabiting one’s yard.

“These products have limited residual efficiency,” said Brown.

“Meaning if you use them when no worms are around, it will not keep them from getting in your yard and will provide limited long-term protection. The most effective way to treat armyworms is to apply only when they show up.”

To test whether a homeowner has the worms in their yard or field, they should try a process known as “scouting,” or conducting walk-throughs to look for dead patches of grass/plants or a large number of birds possibly looking to prey on the armyworms.

Armyworms are caterpillars of the fall armyworm moth, with its diet consisting of grass, fresh sod, hay fields and summer or fall crops – but the last two options are less frequently consumed.

The worms, however less relevant this season, should be handled if residents recognize the signs of them.

“To protect your property, we highly encourage treating as soon as you know they are there. Products are available at most home improvement retailers, garden centers and agriculture supply stores, but make sure to only apply according to label,” Brown said.

“With proper scouting and treatment, armyworms can be safely and effectively managed whether at your farm, home or business.”

To learn more about armyworms and treatment options, contact your local county Extension office.

In Hamblen County, it is located inside the County Government Office which is reachable by phone at 423-586-1993.