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Look out for fall armyworms that
cause lots of destruction,
caution OSU Extension reps
STEUBENVILLE -- Reports have been coming in across the state regarding significant damage to home lawns and golf courses as well as agronomic crops caused by fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), according to Erika Lyon of OSU Extension.
Armyworms get their name from their appearance -- large numbers of individuals moving from place to place, leaving behind significant losses of grasses and related crops. Homeowners may notice dead zones in the lawn that have appeared recently -- newly seeded lawns are vulnerable to feeding damage.
Fall armyworm populations can build up in the southern United States every three to five years. It is likely that adults were picked up from these areas and transported further north by a storm front that passed through recently. Adults can travel up to 500 miles in a single day once they get into the jet stream.
Once the moth arrives to a suitable location, it will produce egg masses, each containing between 100 and 500 eggs. Eggs hatch within a week, with the larval or caterpillar stage lasting three to four weeks before changing into pupae. The total life cycle can be completed in as little as two months.
Grass that has leaves removed by the caterpillar will often have crowns and roots exposed to sunlight. These areas can reach up to 130 degrees, which dehydrates the plants and reduces their ability to grow back.
Controlling caterpillars includes methods such as the highly effective mechanical removal or squishing, as well as applications of insecticides. However, insecticide resistance has been documented in fall armyworm populations, so alternating between different insecticides may be required to get the desired control.
For insecticide options, contact the Jefferson and Harrison Extension offices at (740) 461-6136.
In areas that have been completely defoliated, regular watering or irrigation may be required for plants to come back. Fertilizer applications also can be made during this time of year to promote new growth of cool-season grasses. Slow-release nitrogen products can support plant growth over the course of the fall season.
In some cases, reseeding may be necessary. "Keep in mind that there might be shortages in the seed supply, so now is the time to start searching for mixes that will work best for your lawns and fields," Lyon noted.
Cops and Slobbers fundraiser
is scheduled for Sept. 25
STEUBENVILLE -- Cops and Slobbers, a joint fundraising event presented by the Upper Ohio Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 97 and the Jefferson County Humane Society, will be held Sept. 25 at the Fort Steuben Mall next door to Dick's Sporting Goods.
Doors open at noon for the gun bash with drawings beginning at 1 p.m. The final drawing is at 6 p.m.
Tickets can be obtained in person or by phone for $30 at the Jefferson County Humane Society, 200 Airpark Drive, Wintersville, 43953. The phone number is (740) 314-5583.
They also are available online at fop97.com.
Doc Rowe and family to do concert at Wintersville church
WINTERSVILLE -- Winterville Church of the Nazarene, located at 377 Longvue Drive, Wintersville, will be hosting a worship concert featuring Doc Rowe and family.
It will be held at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 26 and be outdoors, weather permitting. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. A love offering will be received. "Everyone is invited," a church spokesperson noted.
Cabbage roll, pierogi sale
continuing at Weirton church
WEIRTON -- A frozen-uncooked cabbage roll and cheese/potato pierogi sale sponsored by members of St. Nicholas Orthodox Church is under way and will continue while supplies last.
The cost for six cabbage rolls is $20, and a dozen pierogis are $9.
Call (304) 479-0196 to place orders and arrange pickup at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church Hall, 604 Colliers Way, across from Weirton Medical Center.
Urban Mission looking ahead to fall coat drive, distribution
STEUBENVILLE -- Though it may not seem like coat season at the moment, Urban Mission Ministries is looking ahead in preparation for its annual fall coat drive and distribution.
The mission will be collecting new and gently used coats, jackets, hats, gloves and scarves for men, women and children, according to its September newsletter. Dates to keep in mind are:
≤ Sept. 27-Oct. 22: Coat drive/collection dates with the drop-off location at the Urban Thrift donation drop-off center, located behind the Seventh Street Plaza in downtown Steubenville.
≤ The coat distribution dates and times are Oct. 25-27 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Seventh Street Plaza.