COLLEGE OF 

 AGRICULTURE 

 UNIVERSITY OF 

 ILLINOIS AT 

 URBANA-CHAMPAIGN 

 AND NATURAL 

 HISTORY SURVEY 

 URBANA, ILLINOIS 



NSECT WEED & PL A NT DISEASE SURVEY BULLETIN 



ATE/COUNTY/LOCAL GROUPS/U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE COOPERATING 



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 



No. 6, May 12, 1972 



This series of weekly bulletins provides a general look at the insect, weed, and plant 

 disease situation (fruit and commeroial vegetables excepted) , along with suggested, 

 abbreviated, control measures. Each individual ftlt&ibtfrfLfifoec'k. his own fields to deter- 

 mine local conditions. 



INSECTS 



7 9 1972 





CORN INSECTS 



'■NOlS 



Black cutworms may appear in spots within com fields where there has been water 

 standing or where the soil is mucky. These worms may appear any time during the 

 next month. Watch com fields carefully for the first signs of cutting, then dig 

 around several plants. If a few worms are found, apply a 5-percent, carbaryl-apple 

 pomace bait at 20 pounds per acre, broadcast. A spray of 2 pounds of carbaryl per 

 acre with molasses (Sevimol) or with an attractant (Tractum) , or of 1 pound of tri- 

 chlorfon (Dylox) per acre directed at the base of the plant will also control this 

 pest. Do not apply molasses or other attractants and carbaryl near bee yards. 



Do not wait too long to take control measures. The damage by these cutworms can 

 progress rapidly. Early detection and control are important. 



Wireworms may damage some of the corn that is now emerging. Wilting plants indicate 

 damage. Examine the base of the plant. If a hole has been drilled into it, sift 

 the soil for the round wire-like brown wireworms. If replanting becomes necessary, 

 apply one of the organophosphates (2 pounds of diazinon per acre or 1 pound of Das- 

 anit , Dyf onate , phorate (Thimet) , or prophos (Jolt or Mocap) per acre) as granules 

 in a 7-inch band ahead of the press wheel. This will kill all but the full-grown 

 worms . 



Wind damage to corn is easily mistaken for damage by insects. In loose soil, small 

 plants not yet fully rooted may be whipped by strong winds . This pulls the roots 

 loose. The plants then \vilt and may die. No insect feeding is evident on these plants. 



European com borer moths will not be present until late May and early June in south- 

 ern Illinois, mid to late June in the central section, and late June to early July in 

 the northern part of the state. At that time, borer moths will be attracted to the 

 most advanced fields of corn. Make a note now of which fields were planted early, so 

 you can examine them for corn borers at the proper time. 



SMALL GRAINS 



Armyworms can be found occasionally in grass areas. None have been observed as yet 

 in wheat fields . Although moth flight has not been extreme, some fields of grasses 

 could be damaged if the moths concentrate their egg- laying there. 



