Attention: There have been significant increases in CEW moth catches in pheromone traps in parts of the state during the past 2 days. At this time, these increases are largely in southwestern NJ, although elevated catches have occurred as far north as Warren County.
Noteworthy Sweet Corn catches include:
Eldora (Cape May)- 187/night
Green Creek (Cape May) – 183/night
Jones Island (Cumberland)- 133/night
Allamuchy (Warren) – 64/night
Peppers:
E. Vineland – 33/night
Blacklight and pheromone networks are indicating a 3-day silk spray schedule in much of the state. All growers in south and central counties should be on 3-day silk spray schedules for sweet corn. Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic and Salem County growers are especially at risk of infestation if strict spray schedules are not observed. Growers in the northern counties should be on 3-4 day schedules, as recommended by local traps. The current population continues to be a serious economic threat. It is important to use effective materials to manage this pest on silking corn. Insecticides in the IRAC 28 class (Coragen, Besiege, Exirel) and IRAC 5 (Radiant, Blackhawk, Entrust (OMRI approved)) remain among the most useful insecticides against CEW.
Silking Spray Schedules*:
South – 3 days
Central – 3 days
North – 3-4 days
*These recommendations are based on regional catches. Adhere to tighter spray schedules if indicated by local trap catches. Synthetic pyrethroids alone should NOT be used for corn earworm (CEW) protection on silking corn, or for fall armyworm (FAW) management at any stage. Control with these materials is very inconsistent.
