Several species. Adults: Usually black, 3/16 inch long. Larvae: White to cream colored, maggot-like, active, up to 1/4 inch long. They scatter over ear when exposed to light.
Sweet corn.
Adults seldom do damage. Larvae eat into kernels of roasting ears.
Eastern United States, and as far west as Colorado.
Damage is less where varities with long tight husks are grown and where earworm is controlled by pesticides.
Remove damaged ears as soon as possible. Conduct a thorough post-harvest clean up to remove potential overwintering sites.
Treat with a registered insecticide. For Sweet Corn:. Apply to silks every other day beginning at 10% silking and continuing until 90% of silks have wilted and turned brown.
Caution: Honeybees are necessary for good fruit set; insecticides are toxic to bees. Apply in evening when fewer bees are working.
Notice: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes.
Disclaimer: Commercial products named on this site are for informational purposes only. Virginia Cooperative Extension does not endorse these products and does not intend discrimination against other products which also may be suitable.
Prepared by Alexandra Spring and Eric Day (Modified from a publication by the USDA)