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So your corn is planted and seems to be thriving, but there are a few hurdles that need to be still surpassed and one of the pressing issues being what is the best way to protect the corn form insects. Insects can ravage your crop if you are not careful. They are the number one threat to your harvest.

Insects pose a great risk to your corn plant. Make sure you plant your corn far apart so you can control any infestation that might occur. Be vigilant for corn earworms who enjoy the popular type of sweet corn. These insects lay eggs inside the husk and once they are inside there is nothing that can be done to save the crop. Moreover, flying bugs such as locust and moths might also eat your crop too. Crows, though not insects, are also a serious problem so don’t forget to put up a scarecrow so they don’t eat your crop.

To keep the earworms from entering the trip of the husk, you can wrap a rubber band around the tip of the ear or attach a clothespin after the corn silk appears. This won’t harm your plant and will also keep the earworms out so that you don’t lose your crop. Earworms can spread rapidly and we want to minimize their harm.

Another way to protect your corn crop is to use a pesticide spray such as BT that will kill the larvae of the insects before they mature and ruin your crop. Like any chemical though, it is important that you spray exactly as the directions say. Using BT will require you to get a license. Make sure you consult the store you buy it from so that you use the right amount of BT and don’t poison your plant and keep it safe for people.

Other pests that might cause your corn harm are cutworms, stalk borers and stink bugs. These pests destroy the corn stalks and corn seeds during the planting stage. Corn seed maggots can eat through the seeds even before they have a chance to mature and grow. While planting corn seeds, a seed insecticide must be sprayed to protect against black cutworms. You don’t want to lose your corn even before it starts to grow.

There are many ways to protect your corn against insects. Careful use of natural and chemical deterrents will keep your crop safe from insects and pest so that it grows to maturity and harvested in its entirety. Be vigilant and watch your crop carefully so you can get pest before they spread to any corn. Careful watching will ensure your crop stays safe.

Tags: Food and Drink //