How to Control Ear Worms in Your Corn Using Bt - Bacillus thuringiensis

[@mhpgardener]

I didn't plant a late crop this year. I've learned that late corn is much more susceptible to insect problems. Fortunately, all of the early corn has done well. Thanks John.

[@mhpgardener]

I know what you're talking about. I see that once in awhile. They generally get the growth tip when it's about 3 ft tall. During that time, I don't usually do any spraying. But if it looked like they were getting out of control, then yes, I'd be spraying early and often.

[@mhpgardener]

From what I read, about a week, depending on rain. Yes, any type of worm or caterpillar that consumes it should fall asleep shortly thereafter.

[@mhpgardener]

I saw a study a couple years ago that said leave them alone. So I cut the suckers off half my rows, and left them on the others. I didn't see much difference in production. But it was a lot easier to spray and manage the corn that had been suckered.

[@mhpgardener]

In So Cal, you should be able to replant most anything right now. If you're not quite sure, try some faster maturing varieties.

[@mhpgardener]

I like my corn nice and clean too. This is Reid's Yellow Dent. I grew Truckers Favorite a few years ago and it was similar, very tall with huge ears. I kinda liked the taste of it, but nobody else did. So I'm only growing this for the chickens.

[@mhpgardener]

A little bit of missing corn on the end isn't so bad. But when the worm has eaten down one side, that's a problem. I've used a knife a few times too. Fortunately, this years sweet corn was pretty clean.

[@Bigelowbrook]

We use BT on our broccoli. It makes a HUGE difference. It's a big turn-off when you're eating your meal and you find a cabbage worm mixed in with it.

[@mhpgardener]

I've heard of folks doing the injecting, but I haven't tried it. I generally spray the outside of the stem and that does the trick. The vine borers don't seem to be much of a problem around here. So that might have something to do with it.

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks. I have used some Azomite, but not with any side by side comparisons to say for sure that it made a difference.

[@mhpgardener]

I don't do anything fancy. I apply triple 10 prior to planting, then side dress with 34-0-0 when they are about 18-24 inches tall. Corn really likes a high nitrogen fertilizer as it progresses.

[@mhpgardener]

Well, I try to spray once a week, or after a rain. But since it rained just about every day, I got off schedule a little bit.

[@mhpgardener]

I usually put on some pounds during the winter, then lose it during the summer. It's hard to keep the weight on when it's 100 degrees and you have a diet heavy on vegetables and water. Thanks.

[@mhpgardener]

If you spray the silks as soon as you see them, and stick with it, especially after it rains, Bt will make a big difference in the number of worms you see. I use Thuricide, but there are other named brands that work just as well.

[@christinasornbutnark1208]

Thanks dude this really helped. I live in Huntington Beach, California. I didn’t think I’d have to deal with this… but here I am. Thank you so much. I just finished spraying my silks.

[@sqwrrl]

BT is a catch-all name. There are 4 types of Bacillus Thuringiensis. BT is a bacteria that has 4 sub-species, the most toxic to bees is BT aizawai. The subspecies BT kurstaki, israelensis, and tenebrionis have minimal toxicity to honey bees. So those are the ones to look for, if you want to spare the honey bees. I know that Thuricide uses kurstaki. It's what I use for cabbage worm and my collards never looked so good. Congrats on your corn! Thanks for passing on your knowledge.

[@mhpgardener]

Yes, unless it's raining every day like it was here. Then you spray when you can. It shouldn't affect pollination anymore than rain would.

[@2ladyhomesteadershodge898]

I sure do miss you and your common since advice. Hurry back. We need you. Vivian Ann on the side of the mountain in NE Tennessee

[@mhpgardener]

It would be close, depending on the variety. A quick maturing variety would be a good idea.

[@mhpgardener]

Yes sir.... I spray all of my cabbage, broccoli, kale, etc.... simply spraying the top of the leaf surfaces is usually enough.

[@mhpgardener]

Yes it is. I use it a lot more often in the Spring trying to protect my cabbage and broccoli.

[@mhpgardener]

Bt will take care of the horn worms. You'll need something else for the mites Try Neem oil, or some of the insecticidal soap sprays. If the zucchini is not getting pollinated by bees, you'll need to do it yourself. Break off the male flowers, peel back the blossom, and wipe the center part onto the female flowers. It's very easy to do. Thanks.

[@mhpgardener]

Yes sir, I agree. Corn can be a pain, especially a late crop coming in some time in August. The insects are horrendous then.

[@OvGraphics]

Thanks for the video Mr. gardener. I used BT powder many many years ago and then I couldn't find it again. Thought about it this year and ordered some off Amazon...Liquid this time. Just wanted to make sure my memory was right...and it was. Silk time is the time to spray. I can vouch that BT WORKS! It's a a must for the home gardener. You did good! (Also for cabbages and tomatoes too. Squash. All that good stuff. Bullet shot tomatoes are history with this stuff!) Note to the squeamish: For anyone who isn't a caterpillar this stuff is as safe as non-bleached organic Peruvian wheat flour. Safer than ground up cornflakes. USE IT! But use it as prescribed. If the worms get inside then it's all over but the yuck.

[@mhpgardener]

I love the back sprayer. It's much easier to pump the handle and keep walking.

[@totterdell912]

Your vids are great entertainment (next stop Hollywood!). I'm putting in the dutch bucket system, based on your construction, but 5 gal paint strainers dont exist in Aust, so I decided to go with a 1 gal bag around a 6" plastic disposable flower pot (mouth down) the drain tube thru its side & bag mouth zip tied round the drain tube. The idea is to get a big surface area filtered, but have a cheap rigid frame inside a cheap ( & easily obtained) filter medium. I will also try layered fly screen

[@FensterfarmGreenhouse]

Those little buggers still got some of ours! I hit the corn several times but there was so much rain it was almost impossible to keep 'em protected. Great demo Bobby! Chuck

[@mhpgardener]

For sure. I've been eating sweet corn for a few days now, and it is some kinda good.

[@mhpgardener]

My wife's sister helped me shuck the sweet corn yesterday. And it was just like said... she didn't care much for seeing a worm. Fortunately, the worms were only about 1 out of 10. It rained almost every day while the ears were making, washing off what I had sprayed. So I was very happy with such low worm #'s.

[@RobsAquaponics]

Thanks Bobby, growing our first corn for a few years here due to losing so much in the past.. Shall use the BT this time.. Cheers once more sir :)

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks. I over planted the Spring crop, so I didn't plant any late corn. The worst corn I ever did was a late crop a few years ago where I planted purple hull peas on both sides of the corn. The peas drew in every insect known to man. I couldn't keep the moths out of the corn. Out of eight 75 ft rows, I got one bucket of corn. That was a hard lesson, whew. Late corn and peas are a bad combo for me.

[@txbadgirl1]

Am trying corn again this year. Last time it was full of worms, so now I know what to do....wish I had seen this the first time around...

[@Quietwoods2]

BT is a gardeners best friend, it took care of my tobacco hornworms on my tomatoes this year. We work to hard to lose out right near the finish line! Vroooom! Goodbye worms, so long!

[@BrianSmith1969]

Bobby once again information when I need it. After losing my Cucumber and Melon Patch to some worms, I learned, and will try again. I am going to try a few rows of corn too, it is probably late, but I will try. Thanks again for the info!

[@mhpgardener]

I haven't grown it, but I know of some people down south who have, and they love it.

[@mhpgardener]

I'll be glad to pick you up on my way thru. I hope you're the one holding the sign "Will work for food !" I just brought in a bushel of maters for my wife to make salsa, and there's probably 3 or 4 more that need picking. Time to get back to work. :)

[@Trunkneck]

That was a greatly helpful video. My wife and I have had a small garden for 20+ years running now and everytime I try corn worms show up. I heard of the spray used but never knew you do just the silk. Thanks for that. I was spraying leaves and coating it once over so to speak. When we move to Colorado we will have a 5 acre plot to play with, in ground greenhouse etc. I can only hope to do half as well as you. Nice work man. God bless.

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks. Have you side dressed it yet? Once mine gets that size, it's getting ready to take off. So I make sure I give it a good shot of nitrogen.

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks Joe. I'd much rather shuck corn that doesn't have the worms too. After waiting almost 90 days, doing a few minutes of spraying is well worth the effort.

[@mhpgardener]

If you're getting a lot of rain, you probably don't need a tub under the plants. It's ok to let them dry out a little bit. I don't know about heat being related to BER. Most times heat will be the cause of poor pollination, or lack thereof. One other thing could be the variety. I know some tomatoes are more susceptible to BER than others. At 6 ft tall, it sounds like you've done pretty good.... with the exception of BER being a pain.

[@BornRandy62]

BT is also good for corn borers that attack the roots. If you suddently see a bunch of white moths flying around yoru corn fields you probably already have serious root damage. first high wind and your corn will be on the ground or you will have less produce to harvest because the roots are just ate up and gone.

[@mhpgardener]

Yes, Spinosad is a good option too.

[@mhpgardener]

You need to do it at least once a week, and more often if it rains right after you spray.

[@RhodeToPrepping]

I ordered some of that stuff for my cabbage and broccoli. Sure happy to know it is safe stuff. You are great, we appreciate you.

[@BIGALTX]

How many times do you spray the ears? Is once enough?

[@kerrysmith4726]

Enjoyed the video. I have had problems with the worms eating my corn. Next year I will spray. Thanks

[@bgroks1]

Thank you a lot. I have had big patches of corn in my garden, and they have all got infested with these worms. For me it was hard to find something on the Internet for this problem. I love your videos by the way too. :)

[@_dave4460]

been using bt on winter squash and pumpkins for years (for borers). may try some late silver queen or peaches n cream and it good to hear this advice. thanks for sharing

[@dellrand3628]

Hi are you still making videos I haven't seen any new ones from you in a while.I always enjoyed watching your videos.

[@mtpocketswoodenickle2637]

Awesome advice!...now just add a couple drops of Amways spray adjuvant to each batch you mix. The miracle of making water wetter allows you to get more efficient and effective coverage.

[@TheSonoman1976]

Man...again...wish I could have seen this a week ago. I found worms on my corn this week! I pulled the ones off that I found and then sprayed them with the good stuff. Hope I get some ears like yours bro.

[@mhpgardener]

If the plants are close enough together, the wind will take care of pollination. Did you side dress your corn ?

[@mhpgardener]

Yes sir. It'll take care of most any type of worm or caterpillar you can find.

[@mormonslayer71]

I wish you could make a video everyday, I've learned so much from watching your videos thank you so much. This is my first year of growing sweet corn and I never knew about spraying for ear worm. Seems like I just got me a weekend project on the way. Ones again I appreciate all you do.

[@mhpgardener]

I don't know of a better organic option for them either. Maybe some Neem oil ?

[@kf9233]

You are so cool! Love your accent! Planning on corn this year. I'll follow what you instructed to do. Thank you so much for your know how. God Bless you and yours.

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks, I hope it helps.

[@BrianSmith1969]

I might not be able to make the grocery store irrelevant, but I have hurt their bottom line. If you can, try and find a local produce stand. We are lucky to have so many choices here in central Florida. Keep up all the great work Bobby and fellow growers.

[@mhpgardener]

I haven't used Spinosad specifically for worms, but I think you'll be in good shape.

[@rchopp]

Well if the spray doesn't work, you could take the day off gather up them worms and head to your favorite fishing hole..I quit growing corn years ago I would have to have round the clock guard duty to keep the critters from eating it all. Take care, great tip by the way..

[@mhpgardener]

I've seen black smut a few times, that stuff that gets on the end of the ear. But it's usually only a few ears. I haven't seen any of it this year.

[@mhpgardener]

The spray might help some, but you'll probably need something a bit stronger. Try some Spinosad.

[@krimmer66]

Great advice! I would like to specify that BTK would be the better choice i think, it is for caterpillars.. BTI does not work on caterpillars.

[@barbisrule]

Thanks. Great information. I miss you on here!

[@kajahtaa]

Hope you come back to KZbin some day

[@mhpgardener]

I like the small ones. They are perfect for spot spraying.

[@mhpgardener]

I saw your weather forecast....just amazing how perfect things can be. Hit those silks and you should be in good shape. ;)

[@mhpgardener]

Yes mam, those are 2 good things to have around when fighting off insects.

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks. Bt is something that everyone should know about. It really does a great job.

[@glendelacruz7035]

I just watched this video and it's very informative. I lost all my corn this year 2015 because of ear worms infestation. At least, now I know what to do. I would recommend this video. Thanks.

[@mtbotteE85]

I never used this before, but I have put a drop of mineral oil on the silk of each ear. Works good.

[@mhpgardener]

LOL.. I still remember his infamous "I'm all ears" statement. Classic ! Any time that I see moths flying around my garden, I pay attention to where they are landing. If I don't, I find out the hard way.

[@michheywood2450]

That's some great looking corn! Mine is only calf high and its been in the ground ages but I'm hoping I'll get some corn cobs to eat eventually!

[@freewaybaby]

Bobby, all your subscribers still miss you! Life goes on, we know, but still.... just sayin'! Be blessed, you and your lovely missus!

[@LuzYSonidoParaiso]

Can you do a video where you recommend organic pesticides for diffrent plants like corn, beans, pickles, tomatoes. If you can that would help out a lot of new gardeners. Also a video of organic fertilizers that you recommend for different plants

[@jtdamomma]

Oh, you have perfect timing! I'm so glad you posted this and I'll be out spraying tomorrow AM-thanks to your advice! I have some corn that has 2 main ears and 2 little side ears all forming on 1 stalk. I'm thinking that will make all the ears smaller. I'm not sure WHAT to do about that. I've never had that happen before. First time for this variety, though.

[@chrisstanton7900]

Thank you!!! I’ve been so frustrated with my corn looking so beautiful only to find almost every single ear destroyed when I shuck it!!!!

[@terrimoreton6077]

I've been doing that with my other plants because I saw you self pollinate in one of your previous videos. These specifically, for some reason, don't make it to the flowering stage. They turn brown and fall off before the flower gets large enough to open. I'm in South Florida so I thought it might be the inconsistant weather (1 day hot the next raining - a lot).

[@wayneleviner6557]

Thank you for the info.I had some pretty corn ,but on the ends of it I had a lot of worms. I needed to know this. Thanks again and may GOD bless you!

[@RhodeToPrepping]

This is the 2nd time I have watched this video. I am going to get some BT. I read a number of posts & remembered as a girl "doing" corn for a full week, from daylight to dark. Now while we never ate any of those fat little worms, I sure have broke off the ends of lots of ears after finding a worm in there eating away. Sometimes we would have to get a knife after our worm damage. We were taking it out of a field so maybe the old timers just planted enough for the worms too..

[@RVFreeDa]

Makes my mouth water just looking at that corn!

[@davidangler4680]

Thanks Bobby, Great practical advice for a heartbreaking problem.

[@steffaniemccarty3616]

BTW thanks to you we just started our first 5 bucket hydroponic system. We love your videos. Thanks for the inspiration

[@sdfft820]

Thank you Bobby. Can you please make a hydroponic strawberry video?

[@7891234able]

U r a blessing. Tyvm....I have sweet corn, in buckets on patio..and sooooo pretty.. I was needing to know, how to control the worms, when they start...hoping the directions will tell me, how often to Spray

[@honeybacres]

Great video Bobby. I am glad I have never had any trouble with these worms.

[@dagostino115]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us you save people money ,time and vegetables God bless you brother and may God pour out blessing on your crops this year we may need our crops more than ever with this virus upsetting our country.

[@jamesharris7206]

How often do you need to apply this throughout the season? Do the moths continually lay eggs throughout a season or do they have a small range?

[@Flowerhen]

Thanks for the great video, Bobby! Thatis so everynice looking corn. Mine just started tassling at only five feet tall so i am hoping it will be okay. I have pampered the corn this year. :)

[@112jungle]

Nice video Bobby, You ever try adding some Glacial rock dust and or azomite on top of your npk fertilizer. It will give your plants everything they are missing from the npk fertilizer. Azomite and grds provide a full spectrum of over 70 trace minerals, many recognized as essential by the National Research Council of Canada

[@mhpgardener]

Thanks. You explained the Bt details quite well. Nice job. :)

[@yankeegardener9565]

Dang thought you took your videos down i like you info on things thanks for sharing.

[@bigal25938]

At what stage should the silks get sprayed? Before they start turning brown or after and if you spray silks too early will that mess up their pollination?

[@mhpgardener]

Thank you very much. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge. Do you have any idea where people are getting the "Bt toxin" deal from? It's a topic that comes up any time someone mentions Bt. Obviously there are tons of articles online, but how do you clear it all up?

[@jasonratchford6819]

i used sevin this year, sprayed my plants while the tassels were still in the whorl, my silks emerged about two days later, i so far havent seen any bugs or worms in anything, i am hoping that spraying when i did got the bugs out of the area so i dont have to put anything directly on the ears, i was worried about pollination if i sprayed the new silks, but now that they have pollinated i could spray again if needed i guess, thanks for the vid, corn can be a pain

[@mhpgardener]

BT will do the job very well. It's nice to shuck the corn and not find any additional "protein" on the ears. :)

[@meganponce86]

Thank you!!! I’ve been looking everywhere for directions!

[@22justus24U]

Hmmm,.....very interesting indeed. Just have to ask, what do you do for the earworms that are already in the corn when the whorl is coming up at about 4 feet tall? Have you never noticed the nice little rows of holes on the leaf straps when they start unfurling long before the tassel comes out? These too, are corn earworms. By the time the corn is tasseling out, it is way too late...the worms are already in....silk stage can be too late. I believe this is why they want it engineered in.

[@dandavis2755]

Thanks very much. very useful. last year I lost many kale plants trying to keep up by picking them off. I think for every one I picked off two showed up and ate and ate until the next day. I could not keep up. This year I saw the first signs. they are back. I am going to get some BT now and attack.

[@mediamaker2000]

Awesome tip Bobby! I doubt I'll ever need more than my 2 gallon sprayer but that backpack sprayer is way cool! Question: Does BT stop aphids too? That's what got my corn last year.