Year-Round IPM Program Pages
This year-round IPM program covers the major pests of field corn in the Central Valley. This program does not cover sweet corn.
6th leaf to tassel appearance
- Special issues of concern related to environmental quality: volatile organic compounds (VOCs), drift, runoff.
- Mitigate pesticide effects on air and water quality.
What should you be doing during this time?
- Keep records noting the presence, location, and extent of problematic weeds.
- Consider postemergent herbicides for weed seedlings not controlled by cultivation.
Randomly select and pick older, lower leaves on several corn plants throughout the field and inspect for spider mite damage. Manage as needed according to the Corn Pest Management Guidelines.
Consider taking leaf tissue samples for nutrient analysis and apply nutrients as necessary.
Monitor for Pythium stalk rot to prepare for next year’s management.
If aphids appear on the tassels, consider treating to prevent spreading of viruses.
Look for corn leafhopper and note problems for next year’s management.
Other pests or damage you may see:
- Armyworms
- Corn leafminer
- Cucumber beetles
- Grasshoppers
- Thrips