Flies on corn - Ask Extension
Hello,
A client came in with a corn stalk with what appears to be fruit flies or gnats dead in large quantities. Can you identify this insect and is...
Knowledgebase
Flies on corn #880245
Asked August 05, 2024, 12:28 PM EDT
Hello,
A client came in with a corn stalk with what appears to be fruit flies or gnats dead in large quantities. Can you identify this insect and is it harmful to the plant? There does not appear to be any damage occurring.
Additionally, the client planted his crop on June 7th. It is Trinity variety 70 day corn. The plants have not yet started to tassel. The plants are growing vertically very vigorously and appear very healthy (over 7ft tall) What could be causing this to occur, and is there still time for ears to develop before the end of the season?
Antrim County Michigan
Expert Response
Corn leaf aphids have arrived to Michigan, catching a ride on recent tropical air masses. See below for a description from our vegetable education team. The aphids may cause cosmetic issues or cause tassels to be deformed. Some of the pesticides listed below are only available to individuals with an applicator's license.
Corn leaf aphid has arrived relatively early in larger numbers, colonizing some sweet corn plantings Aphids are easy to see on tassels. If you see aphids, check corn silks and ears where aphids can cause cosmetic issues. Pyrethroids like Brigade, Baythroid and Warrior (and generics) may be used to provide some aphid and earworm control (some of these are also in premixes with diamides). Good coverage is key. Pyrethroids will also kill aphid-eating beneficials. If a non-pyrethroid is desired, a neonicotinoid like acetamiprid (e.g., Assail) could be used; it will not help with earworm but will target aphids.
Corn leaf aphid has arrived relatively early in larger numbers, colonizing some sweet corn plantings Aphids are easy to see on tassels. If you see aphids, check corn silks and ears where aphids can cause cosmetic issues. Pyrethroids like Brigade, Baythroid and Warrior (and generics) may be used to provide some aphid and earworm control (some of these are also in premixes with diamides). Good coverage is key. Pyrethroids will also kill aphid-eating beneficials. If a non-pyrethroid is desired, a neonicotinoid like acetamiprid (e.g., Assail) could be used; it will not help with earworm but will target aphids.
