Corn Insects

Corn insect pests can potentially damage corn from the time of planting until harvest is complete.  Many early-season pests feed below ground on the roots and stem.  These pests include wireworms, white grubs, cutworms, southern and western corn rootworm, and sugarcane beetles.  At-planting insecticide applications and seed treatments can be used to reduce the risk of insect injury to seedling corn.  Common above ground pests include European corn borer, southwestern corn borer, fall armyworm and corn earworm.  Planting during the recommended window, avoiding late plantings, will greatly reduce the potential for damage from these insects.  Bt corn provides excellent control of corn borers and moderate control of fall armyworm and corn earworm.  The publication below provides detailed information on the management of corn insect pests, including treatment thresholds and recommended insecticides.

Insect Control Recommendations for Field Crops (PB1768)