Few things say summer quite like fresh sweet corn straight from the garden. Unfortunately, corn earworms also enjoy those tender, juicy kernels.
According to information from K-State Extension-Flint Hills District, a few well-timed steps can help reduce damage and protect sweet corn during the growing season.
One option is to spray spinosad, an organic insecticide, every two to three days while the silks are fresh and green. Once the silks begin to brown, gardeners may also place a few drops of mineral oil or another light horticultural oil in the tip of each ear. This can help stop earworms, but timing is important. Applying oil too early may interfere with pollination.
Planting sweet corn early can also help reduce pressure from corn earworms.
Even with prevention efforts, some earworm damage may still occur. K-State Extension notes that gardeners do not need to throw away the entire ear if worms get to the corn first. In many cases, the damaged portion can simply be trimmed off, leaving the rest of the ear ready to enjoy.