Most Common Corn Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Corn is one of the most widely grown crops in the world, providing food, fuel, and feed for millions of people and animals. However, like any other crop, corn is vulnerable to pests that can cause significant damage to the plants and reduce the yield. In this article, we will discuss the most common corn plant pests and how to identify and treat them.

Common Corn Plant Pests

1. Corn Earworms

Corn earworms are one of the most destructive pests that attack corn plants. These pests are usually found in the ear of the corn plant and can cause significant damage to the kernels. The larvae of corn earworms feed on the silks and kernels of the corn ear, leading to poor quality and reduced yield.

2. Corn Rootworms

Corn rootworms are pests that attack the roots of corn plants. These pests can reduce the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield.

3. Fall Armyworms

Fall armyworms are pests that attack the leaves of corn plants. These pests can cause significant damage to the foliage, leading to reduced photosynthesis and stunted growth.

4. Cutworms

Cutworms are pests that attack young corn plants by cutting them off at the base. These pests can cause significant damage to newly planted fields, leading to reduced yield.

Identification of Corn Plant Pests

To identify corn plant pests, it is essential to look for signs of damage on the plants. Some of the signs include:

• Holes or tunneling in leaves
• Chewed or missing kernels
• Wilting or yellowing plants
• Stunted growth
• Cut plants at the base

Treatment of Corn Plant Pests

Treatment options for corn plant pests vary depending on the severity of the infestation. Some of the treatment options include:

1. Biological Control

Biological control involves the use of natural predators or parasites to control pest populations. This method is often used to control corn earworms and fall armyworms.

2. Chemical Control

Chemical control involves the use of pesticides to control pest populations. This method is often used to control corn rootworms and cutworms.

3. Cultural Control

Cultural control involves modifying the growing environment to discourage pest populations. This method includes crop rotation, planting resistant varieties, and maintaining proper soil fertility.

FAQ

How can I prevent corn plant pests?

To prevent corn plant pests, it is essential to maintain proper soil fertility, plant resistant varieties, and practice crop rotation.

How do I know if my corn plants are infested with pests?

Signs of pest infestations on corn plants include holes or tunneling in leaves, chewed or missing kernels, wilting or yellowing plants, stunted growth, and cut plants at the base.

What treatment options are available for corn plant pests?

Treatment options for corn plant pests include biological control, chemical control, and cultural control. The type of treatment used depends on the severity of the infestation.

In conclusion, corn plant pests can cause significant damage to crops, leading to reduced yield and poor quality. It is essential to identify these pests early and treat them promptly using appropriate methods. By following the identification and treatment guide outlined in this article, farmers can protect their corn crops from these destructive pests and ensure a bountiful harvest.