EVALUATION OF 2 MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR STALK BORER, PAPAIPEMA-NEBRIS, IN CORN

Two models, one to predict stalk borer (Papaipema nebris Guenée) development and the other to predict larval movement from grass terraces to corn, were used to time applications of the insecticide, permethrin. Both models were based upon degree-day accumulations from 1 January and used a developmental threshold of 5.1°C. Permethrin, applied during the egg-hatch period, significantly reduced stalk borer density in smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyssera) terraces by 54-85% over untreated plots during 1986 and 1987. Applications of permethrin that were timed to coincide with larval movement, however, were more effective in reducing severe damage to plants in corn rows adjacent to terraces than applications during egg hatch in 1987. This study suggests that using degree-day models to time insecticide application may be a viable strategy for stalk borer management. © 1990.