DATCP Data Shows an Increase in Late-Season Corn Earworm Moth Activity

Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 -- 1:01 PM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) Recent data from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) indicates a significant increase in late-season corn earworm moth activity.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, for the second consecutive week, DATCP's pheromone trapping network has observed substantial migration flights, capturing 3,357 moths between August 23 and 29, bringing the total to 4,668 moths across 15 traps.

Notably, the monitoring site near Beaver Dam in Dodge County recorded a particularly high count, with 884 moths caught in a single week. This surge in moth activity signals an elevated risk to sweet corn crops, especially in fields with green silks where egg laying is likely to intensify.

The current migration pattern suggests that sweet corn growers should remain vigilant, regularly monitoring their fields for signs of infestation. The increased presence of corn earworm moths could lead to more significant damage if left unchecked, making timely intervention crucial.

DATCP advises growers to continue following their corn earworm migration reports through mid-September to stay informed about the pest's activity levels. Additionally, treatment schedules, based on nightly trap catches, are available through resources like the "Commercial Vegetable Production in Wisconsin" guide, helping growers effectively manage this late-season threat.

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