June 27, 2002

By: Mike Staton

Extension ANR Agent

1737 Hillandale Road

Benton Harbor, MI 49022 Phone: (616) 944-4126

European corn borer larvae have been found at damaging levels in several cornfields in the Niles area. Corn growers should check their tallest cornfields for signs of larval feeding as soon as possible. Look for small whitish spots on the top of the upper leaves. The spots will be smaller that 1/8" so you will need to examine plants closely. If less than half of the plants have been feed upon, the field should not be treated. If more than half the plants are damaged, a more detailed economic analysis should be performed. The procedure for this analysis is outlined in Extension bulletin E-2275, "Scouting for First Generation European Corn Borers in Field Corn" which is available at County MSU Extension offices at no charge. If treatment is warranted apply it as soon as possible while the larvae are small and easy to control and before they can burrow into the stalk where they cause the greatest damage. Please contact your local MSU Extension office for more information .

Michigan State University Extension prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, or family status. Person with disabilities may request accommodations by calling Berrien County MSU Extension office at 616-944-4126 by Friday, March 15 to ensure sufficient time to make arrangements. Requests made less than two weeks before the event will be met when possible. ##