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Common stalk borer ; These brownish- white worms with a distinct purple 

 area around the middle of their bodies, tunnel in the stalks of oats and corn. 

 The unfolding leaves of corn plants often show irregular holes where the worms 

 have fed. The heads of oat plants turn white prematurely in areas in the field. 

 Feeding occurs most frequently in border rows and rows adjacent to areas that have 

 a weed problem. 



Damage from this pest is usually of little consequence. By the time the 

 damage is observed, chemicals will not be effective. In areas where the pest is 

 known to be present each year, it is wise to keep weeds under control, especially 

 during August and September. 



Armyworms : During the next few weeks, watch for this pest in luxuriant 

 and lodged areas in oats, tianothy and other grassy fields in the northern half 

 of Illinois. Some small worms are now present, and moths are flying in large 

 numbers. Armyworms are readily controlled in grain fields with l/k pound of 

 dieldrin or 1 1/2 pounds of toxaphene per acre. Usually it takes 1 to 3 days for 

 results to become apparent. Do not harvest the grain for 7 days after treatment. 

 If treatment becomes necessary in grass pasture to protect the pasture or to pre- 

 vent migrations to adjacent corn fields, use 2 pounds of methoxychlor per acre. 

 Methoxychlor will prevent the worms from feeding, even though actual kill is poor. 

 When using methoxychlor, allow 7 days to elapse between treatment and harvest or 

 pasturing. 



Picnic beetles ; These shiny black beetles about l/k inch long with four 

 yellow spots on their back are appearing in large numbers around the farm, home 

 and garden. They are scavengers feeding on fruits, vegetables and decaying ma- 

 terials. They particularly like tomatoes, over-ripe fruits, and ears of corn. 

 Home gardeners should use malathion for control in vegetable and fruit crops. Fol- 

 low the manufacturer's directions on the container. 



Special Note to Vegetable Growers ; Small brown sap beetles are appearing 

 in sweet corn fields that have been damaged by corn earworm and corn borer. Where 

 beetles are present, apply 1/2 pound of parathion or 1 pound of malathion per acre, 

 using proper handling procedures. 



Caution; Before applying insecticides, read labels carefully and follow 

 all precautions. This not only will insure personal safety, but will eliminate 

 insecticide residue hazards. 



****** 



This weekly report was prepared by Steve Moore III, Illinois Agricultural 

 Extension Service and Illinois Natural History Survey, in cooperation with the USDA 

 Agricultural Service, Plant Pest Control Branch, from information gathered by 

 entomologists and cooper ators who send in weekly reports from their own localities. 



