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The Corn Earworm is the larva of a moth, the Helicoverpa zea. It can affect a wide variety of crops like cotton, tomato and corn crops. The larva feed of the fruit, leaving big holes that ruin the fruit completely. Thus, corn earworm control is mandatory as soon as the problem becomes evident.
The Helicorvea Zea is a moth, with nocturnal habits, that deposits its eggs on the leaves of fruit producing plants. The larvae come out of the eggs, and start chewing their way into the corn cob or any other fruit they are infesting. They can also attack tomato and pepper crops, and can ruin the whole crop if they are not properly controlled. Once inside the corn cob, it is impossible to get rid of them by using external pesticides, and systemic products are out of the question, since we are talking about a product for consumption. The only way to achieve corn earworm control is to attack the eggs and larvae before they gain access to the inside of the fruits.
Eggs are small, pale green at first, and are placed on the insides of the leaves. It is therefore a good idea to check corn leaves daily in order to spot these eggs as soon as they appear. Since the moths are nocturnal, you might not see them during the day and you will not get a clue about the situation until it is too late. Careful inspection of the crop is, therefore, one of the basics for corn earworm control.
Eggs hatch in about four days. If you find the eggs on the leaves, the best option would be to use a pesticide. There are many in the market. Talk with your provider to ensure you get the best one for your situation. Pesticides should be applied every two or three days, to ensure no egg is allowed to hatch and infest the corn cobs. It is vital to follow a strict schedule and not to miss any day for the best possible corn earworm control, or the consequences could be terrible for your crop.
There are certain beneficial insects, called Trichogramma sp., which can help control the problem by feeding on the eggs. Ladybugs can also help in this respect, but if the problem is severe there is little they can do. Your best option to achieve corn earworm control is to apply pesticides regularly and to stay on the lookout for those eggs. Also, crops planted early in the spring tend to be less affected than those planted in late spring or summer. Take this into account when deciding when to plant.
Whether your crop is a big one or a small-scale crop for family consumption, you must take measures to achieve corn earworm control as soon as possible. Preventive measures include planting early, inspecting leaves and fruit. If you have a severe problem, the use of pesticides is possibly the only way out. If not, you could try releasing ladybugs or other insects that feed on the eggs and small larvae. Plan carefully and act timely to enjoy a good yield!
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about Pest and Disease and organic gardening at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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