A Comprehensive Guide to Identification, Damage, and Control
Corn earworms are a common garden pest that can cause significant damage to corn crops, as well as other vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and beans. They are also known as cotton bollworms or tomato fruitworms, and they are found throughout much of the United States, including Live Oak, FL (USDA Zone 8B).
Identification
Corn earworms are small, caterpillar-like insects that are usually about 1 inch in length. They can vary in color from pale green to brown, depending on their stage of development and what they have been feeding on. The larvae have distinctive stripes running along the length of their body, and they have a small, dark head.
Damage
Corn earworms feed on the ears of corn and other vegetables, causing significant damage to the kernels. They tunnel into the ear, leaving behind a slimy mess of frass (insect excrement) and damaged kernels. This can result in reduced yields and poor quality produce. In addition, earworms can introduce bacteria and fungi into the damaged kernels, leading to further problems.
Natural Control Methods
Fortunately, there are several natural ways to control corn earworms and protect your garden from their damage.
- Crop rotation: One of the most effective ways to control corn earworms is to practice crop rotation. This involves planting different crops in different areas of your garden each year, to help disrupt the life cycle of the pests. For example, if you plant corn in one area of your garden one year, plant beans or tomatoes in that area the following year.
- Handpicking: Another effective way to control corn earworms is to handpick the larvae from the plants. This can be a time-consuming process, but it is effective if done consistently. Look for the larvae on the ears of corn and other vegetables, and remove them by hand.
- Traps: You can also use traps to capture and kill corn earworms. One effective trap is a pheromone trap, which attracts the adult moths and prevents them from laying their eggs on the plants. These traps can be purchased at most garden centers.
- Natural predators: Encouraging natural predators, such as birds and beneficial insects like ladybugs, can also help control corn earworms. You can attract these predators by planting flowers and herbs that they like, such as marigolds, dill, and cilantro.
- Beneficial nematodes: Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that can help control a wide range of garden pests, including corn earworms. These nematodes can be purchased at garden centers and online, and are safe to use around children and pets.
Pest Management
If natural control methods are not enough to manage the corn earworm population in your garden, there are several additional options for pest management.
- Insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to control corn earworms. It works by suffocating the larvae and preventing them from feeding on the plants. Insecticidal soap can be purchased at most garden centers and should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Bacillus thuringiensis (BT): BT is a natural bacteria that can be used to control corn earworms and other caterpillars. It works by infecting the larvae with a toxin that causes them to stop feeding and die. BT can be purchased at most garden centers and should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Pyrethrin: Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that can be used to control corn earworms. It works by paralyzing the insects and preventing them from feeding. Pyrethrin can be purchased at be used to physically block corn earworms from reaching your plants. These covers are made of lightweight fabric and are placed over the plants, allowing sunlight and water to penetrate while keeping insects out. Row covers should be removed when the plants begin to flower to allow for pollination.
- Companion planting: Companion planting involves planting certain plants together that benefit each other in some way. For example, planting garlic or onions with corn can help repel corn earworms. Other companion plants that can help repel corn earworms include marigolds, nasturtiums, and tansy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, corn earworms are a common garden pest that can cause significant damage to corn crops and other vegetables. However, there are several natural ways to control corn earworms, including crop rotation, handpicking, traps, natural predators, and beneficial nematodes. If natural control methods are not enough, there are several options for pest management, including insecticidal soap, BT, pyrethrin, neem oil, row covers, and companion planting. By using these methods, you can protect your garden from the damage caused by corn earworms, and enjoy a bountiful harvest.