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Ohio State University Extension

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Spider Mites in Corn

Normally we only worry about spider mites in soybean, but when conditions are just wrong they can impact corn as well.  Corn that has been treated with some fungicides and insecticides (particularly a broad-spectrum pyrethroid) are more likely to experience spider mite outbreaks under hot, dry conditions.  A general guide for treatment of twospotted spider mites in corn is 15-20% of leaf area covered in mite colonies, with continued dry weather expected.  Control is most likely to be economical from pre-tassel through soft dough, and unlikely to provide a return from dent onward. 

Most-excellent field crop entomologist Chris DiFonzo at Michigan State has put together a nice table listing spider mite products for corn, soybean, dry bean, and sugarbeet.  Always check your labels!

http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/spider_mite_spraying_in_michigan_field_crops_brand_new_cheat_sheet

Crop Observation and Recommendation Network

C.O.R.N. Newsletter is a summary of crop observations, related information, and appropriate recommendations for Ohio crop producers and industry. C.O.R.N. Newsletter is produced by the Ohio State University Extension Agronomy Team, state specialists at The Ohio State University and the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC). C.O.R.N. Newsletter questions are directed to Extension and OARDC state specialists and associates at Ohio State.