Field corn is a widely planted crop grown in 48 U.S. states. Different pest complexes occur across the various production regions of North Carolina (Mountain, Piedmont, Coastal Plain, Tidewater).
A focus on increasing yield, while minimizing mycotoxin levels in corn, creates a need for both sound agronomic practices and more efficient insect management systems for ear-damaging pests. Formerly devastating pests, such as corn rootworm (Diabrotica spp.), European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis Hubner), and billbugs (Sphenophorus spp. ) are effectively managed with insecticide treatments, seed treatments, rotation, or plant-based toxin delivery systems. However, there is evidence of resistance in each of these species, reminding producers to incorporate IPM principles rather than relying on a single management tactic.- Managing Insect Pests in Organically Certified Corn
- Cultural Practices for Corn Insect Pests
- Field Corn Insect Pests