European Corn Borer

European Corn Borer: (Size=1-1/4 inch)
This caterpillar pest is common throughout the northern and eastern sections of the U.S., as far west as Montana and as far south as northern Arkansas. Adult moths first appear in late spring from caterpillars that overwintered in old cornstalks and similar hiding places. In spring they pupate, emerge as adults, and deposit clusters of white eggs on leaf undersides. The pinkish larvae that emerge feed on leaves and tassels sometimes producing a shot-hole effect in leaves. As caterpillars mature, they'll bore into main stalks and leave behind sawdust-filled holes. In addition to corn, they'll also feed on tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers.

Controls:
Pull out or plow under old stalks after harvest. If borers have been a problem in the past, treat ears and leaves with an insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as soon as silk is partially emerged.

Plant resistant corn varieties.

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