Pest Control Library: European Corn Borer

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By National Gardening Association Editors

This pest is common throughout the northern and eastern sections of the United States, as far west as Montana and as far south as northern Arkansas. Caterpillars overwintering in cornstalks and similar hiding places pupate in spring. Adult moths first appear in late spring and deposit clusters of white eggs on the undersides of leaves. The pinkish larvae that emerge feed on leaves and tassels. A "shot-hole" in leaves is a familiar sign of their presence. As caterpillars mature, they bore into main stalks and leave behind sawdust-filled holes. In addition to corn, they will also feed on tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.

Prevention and Control

Remove or plow under old stalks after harvest. If borers have been a problem in the past, treat emerging ears and leaves with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) when the silk has partially emerged.

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This article is a part of our Pest Control Library.
This article is a part of our Pest Control Library.
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