Predicting Stalk Borer Growth Stage - UNL CropWatch, May 31, 2013
May 31, 2013
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Figure 1. Accumulated degree days from January 1 to May 28, using a 41°F base. (Source: Al Dutcher and the High Plains Regional Climate Center) |
Stalk borer hatch and migration to new hosts can be predicted using degree days (DD). Based on research at Iowa State University, stalk borer egg hatch begins at about 575 DD and ends at 750 DD. Begin scouting corn when 1,300-1400 DD have accumulated. This corresponds with the beginning of larvae moving out of grassy hosts. Determine the need for treatment when 1,400-1,700 DD have accumulated.
This week's map indicates that stalk borer eggs have hatched across most of the state. Be ready to scout for larvae when 1400 DD have accumulated.
Robert Wright
UNL Extension Entomologist
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| Table 1. Degree day requirements for common stalk borer development and management activities (41°F base). | |
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| Degree day accumulation from Jan. 1 | Event (Egg and larva development) |
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| 575 |
Egg hatch begins |
| 750 |
Egg hatch complete |
| 1,400 |
10% of larvae move out of grasses |
| 1,700 |
50% of larvae move out of grasses |
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| Event (Pest control) | |
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| 1,300-1,400 |
Begin scouting grassy field borders and corn |
| 1,400-1,700 |
Make insecticide treatment decision in corn |
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