I have corn that I started from seeds 4 weeks ago, the plants range in size from 1' to 2' tall. They don't have any silk yet. The leaves are starting to look like swiss cheese, something is eating holes all over the leaves. I have found 2 small caterpillars, green in color, hiding down in the center of the plant. In some of the plants they have eaten all of the center leaves.
What are these and what can I use to get rid of them?
Thanks!
That is more than likely a corn borer. (Your pic is a little fuzzy.)
There is a product called BT. You follow directions for mixing & then apply into the center of the plant.
Later when you start getting silks, you can use it against corn earworm.
It is an organic product. Ask your favorite garden center, they should have it on hand.
Good luck,
Bernie
Um, Tammeebee, is that worm sitting in your hand?
um, Tammeebee, please check in before I think that worm ate you up!
He was in my hand, until I squashed him. I just haven't been on for a while!!
I have applied BT a couple of times but have found more borers. These critters are terrible!!
Another solution is to drizzle mineral oil on the top of each ear of corn and then use rubber bands to tightly wrap the top of the corn ear. But that's generally done BEFORE insects appear.
