The purpose of this project is to work with a group of diversified vegetable farmers in the Northeast to evaluate an integrated non-chemical strategy for managing key caterpillar pests in sweet corn. In New England, corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) migrates annually into the region and causes serious ear damage in late-season corn. European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) is a resident pest of sweet corn which also contributes to ear damage, especially in the later part of the season. Currently, organic growers have no tools for controlling corn earworm, and experience significant losses in retail sales as a result. Growers have identified corn earworm control as the most important barrier to organic sweet corn production.
