Managing Corn Rootworm in 2012

June 26, 2012

Higher than normal winter and spring temperatures are conducive to high survival rates of overwintering corn rootworm (CRW) and have created the potential for heavy CRW pressure this season. In addition, the dry conditions this year can help slow root development, which makes the existing roots even more important for water and nutrient uptake as well as plant support. Corn rootworm have shown they can adapt and are consequently one of the toughest pests to control. To mange these pests growers should be able to identify both the western corn rootworm (WCRW) and northern corn rootworm (NCRW), identify root damage, and use an integrated pest management system. Management tactics may include: utilizing crop rotation, planting Genuity SmartStax RIB Complete corn blend with it dual mode of action against CRW, and using a soil insecticide when YieldGard VT Triple or Genuity VT Triple PRO products are planted. To reduce CRW populations and pressure if going back to corn the following year, growers should also scout adult CRW and apply foliar insecticide if thresholds are met.

Two separate resources are available to education you against CRW. They both discuss life cycles and recommendations for controlling the pest; but their content varies by geography.

If you are trying to manage CRW in Kansas, Colorado or Nebraska - click here
If you are trying to manage CRW in Iowa, Illinois or Wisconsin - click here