Management Decisions

Management of European corn borer and other sweet corn insects consists of careful assessment of population levels and timely application of insecticides. Decision rules for treatment of sweet corn must include considerations for other pest insects, i.e., corn earworm, armyworms, and sap beetles, as well as the possible harmful effects. Treatment thresholds for the complex of sweet corn insect pests vary from one location to another; therefore, it is advisable to check with local pest management specialists for the appropriate treatment guidelines. When selecting insecticides, consideration should be given to preventing losses of beneficial insects such as bees and natural enemies. Also, human safety, as well as the time allowed between treatment and harvest, must be considered. The decision process is further complicated by the fact that only low levels of damage are allowed for ears, and insecticide treatment is the only reliable means of keeping injury levels low. Present decision-making procedures developed for seed and field corn do not apply to the circumstances for sweet corn. Researchers are investigating ways to reduce insecticide-dependent insect control for sweet corn.