126 PESTS OF GARDEN AND FIELD CROPS 
the sugar-cane borer. In early summer, the tender unfolding leaves 
are found riddled, and often the central part destroyed, so that growth 
is aborted. In midsummer a new generation of borers works in the 
pith of the lower stalks, making numerous channels, often causing 
the stalk to break down in strong winds. 
The first lot of moths are out early in the growing season, and lay 
eggs on the young leaves. In the fall the larva of the second brood 
burrows down into the base of the stalk, where it spends the winter. 
Control measures consist in the removal and destruction of all 
stalks left in the field in fall. If the stalks are short, they may be 
plowed under deeply. Rotation of crops will help in control. 
The Sugar-cane Borer (Diatrea saccharalis Fab.) 
The work of this borer in sugar cane is similar to that of the related 
species in corn. The larve destroy the buds or “‘ eyes ”’ by entering 
the stalk through them, stunting the 
growth of the young plants, and their 
burrows so weaken the main stalks that 
the plants break off in strong winds. In 
addition the sugar content is seriously 
lowered. 
Eggs are laid on the leaves, and the 
larve feed for a short time in the upper 
whorls, but soon enter the cane. Pu- 
pation takes place within the stalk. There 
may be several broods annually. Winter 
is passed as larva or pupa within the cane, 
and emergence of adults begins early in 
Fic. 101. — Adult of _the the spring. 
Sugpieene Eres omnes Control is difficult. All tops and trash 
should be spread out to dry, and burned as soon as possible. Infested 
cane around sheds and refineries should be destroyed. Shoots and 
suckers from the stubble of early cut cane should be cut off, so as 
to cause the death of the young borers within that otherwise would 
hibernate. 
