Budworm Control on Sweet Corn, Fall, 1982

‘Bonanza’ sweet corn was planted 2 Sept. in Myakka fine sand on the Univ. of Florida Agric. Res. and Educ. Cent, in Sanford. Nemacur 15G 2 lb (AI)/ acre was incorporated at planting time in a 15-in band for nematode control. A plot consisted of one 50-ft row with 12-in plant spacing. Plots were separated by 60 in (two row spacings). Treatments were replicated in four randomized complete blocks separated by 10-ft weed-free alleys. Sprays were applied with a CO2 pressurized sprayer mounted on an Allis-Chalmers model G tractor. Three nozzles were used per row; one overhead (TX 24) and one drop (TX 12) on each side. The delivery rate was 50 gal/acre with a boom pressure of about 40 lb/in2 and a speed of 3 mph. Baits were broadcasted over-the-top in premeasured amounts with a shaker-can. Sprays were applied 17 and 28 Sept. and 6 Oct. Baits were applied 20 and 27 Sept. and 6 Oct. Twenty plants per plot were rated for damage on 27 Sept. and 5 and 12 Oct. as follows: 0, no damage; 1, etching only (evidence of foliar feeding by newly hatched larvae); 2, light bud damage; 3, severe bud damage; and 4, bud completely destroyed. Damage ratings were taken when the plants were 12 to 18 in tall; the stage considered most susceptible to bud destruction by fall armyworm.