Illinois Field Crop Applicators Practice Test

Which three factors can lead to black cutworm damage?

1. Crop debris, winter annual weeds, and late planting

2. Heavy rainfall, soil compaction, and high temperatures

3. Reduced tillage, cover cropping, and diverse rotations

4. Pest resistance, genetic modification, and organic practices

The correct answer is: Crop debris, winter annual weeds, and late planting

The three factors that can lead to black cutworm damage are crop debris, winter annual weeds, and late planting. This is because black cutworms are known to thrive in environments that provide them with cover and food sources. Crop debris can serve as a habitat for cutworm larvae, allowing them to survive during their non-active stages. Additionally, winter annual weeds may provide an alternative food source for these pests before crops are planted, increasing their population in the spring. Late planting can compound the problem as it gives black cutworms a longer period to feed on young plants, which are particularly vulnerable during their initial growth stages. In contrast, options involving heavy rainfall, soil compaction, and high temperatures do not directly contribute to the invasion of black cutworms but may influence overall crop health and various other pests. Similarly, factors like reduced tillage, cover cropping, and diverse rotations are practices aimed at soil health and pest management, and they tend to reduce pest populations rather than encourage them. Lastly, pest resistance and practices related to genetic modification or organic farming focus more on managing pest populations rather than creating conditions that favor cutworm development.