They suck sap from the plant and can transmit viruses. It is best to remove them early.

How do I spot cutworms?

They are nocturnal, so check your plants at night or look for them just below the soil surface during the day.

How do I get rid of pests on my oats?

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny insects.
Check the base of the stems for damage.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: Tiny green or black insects clustered on the undersides of leaves or stems.
What to do: Spray the plants with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. You can also use insecticidal soap if the infestation is heavy.
Cutworms
Possible
How to tell: Young seedlings are found chewed through or severed at the soil line.
What to do: Place a cardboard collar around the base of each seedling to act as a barrier. Handpick any larvae you find in the soil during the evening.

When to worry

A few aphids are usually fine, but a large colony will drain the plant's energy. Cutworm damage is serious because it kills the plant entirely.

Stopping it coming back

Monitor your plants regularly and keep the area free of weeds that might harbor pests.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your oats.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Are aphids harmful?: They suck sap from the plant and can transmit viruses. It is best to remove them early.
How do I spot cutworms?: They are nocturnal, so check your plants at night or look for them just below the soil surface during the day.