June 15, 2007

Common Stalk Borer Damage Likely Visible in Corn

Figure 1. Common stalk borer

At first, large shotholes can be seen, and later, as the stalk borers burrow into the plant, the plant looks very ragged and stunted. Common stalk borer damage is occasionally confused with corn borer damage, but is usually confined to a few rows that border grassy areas.

Identification: The larva is pale white, with dark brown to purplish stripes that converge to form a saddle shape along the middle of the body. Once the larvae have entered the stalks, there is no control available.