Stink Bug on Sweet Corn
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Stink bug (Euschistus sp., Acrosternum sp.) damage to sweet corn is sporadic, even within damaged fields. Damaged plants are often grouped together in a row. Stink bugs feed on plants with their piercing, sucking mouthparts and inject digestive enzymes. This damage can result in injury to the growing point, tillering, and twisted leaves that fail to emerge from the whorl (buggy whipping). While there are other potential causes for these symptoms, stinks bug often leave a series of holes across the leaves that have yellow, irregular boarders. Damage to young plants becomes evident several days after feeding occurs.
Brown stink bug feeding at the base of plant
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Tillering due to stink bug feeding.
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Buggy whipping due to stink bug feeding.
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Characteristic dissolved holes across leaf due to stink bug feeding.
(Photo: UK Vegetable IPM Team, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Monitor for stink bugs and their damage while plants are less than 12 inches tall, particularly after mild winters.
- If necessary, foliar sprays directed toward the base of the plant can help reduce stink bug damage.
