Corn mostly is thought of as an early spring planted crop, although multiple crops can be sown. Successive plantings spread the fresh harvest over a longer period, but later sowings are more challenged by the corn earworm. Corn earworm eggs are laid on the silks, and the larva of the Noctuid moth eats its way down through the ear of the corn. Some say that placing a clothspin or rubber band on the tip of the ear sometimes helps prevent the earworm from entering the ear. However, you may find the conventional, recommended insecticides are the best method of ensuring a crop.
Many gardeners also find that deer and raccoons have a deep-seated love of corn.
Jim Schuster with the University of Illinois Extension Service suggested sprinkling stalks and leaves with baby powder. Reapply after each rain to deter the raccoons. He also suggested using Dial soap to deter both deer and raccoons. In their tests, this brand was the only soap that works. Hang a half bar of soap on short stakes, allowing the soap to dangle 6 inches above the ground.