Apply insecticides when 3 to 6 larvae are found per whorl. Use insecticide as a coarse spray in 15 or more gallons of total volume per acre. Back To Top Chinch Bugs Chinch bugs occasionally attack corn and may cause severe stunting and yield reductions. Chinch bugs are routinely a problem in certain areas of the state, and intensive management may be required to control this insect. Young immature nymphs have red bodies with a white stripe across the back.
Older nymphs are darker, lacking the stripe and reddish abdomen.
Chinch bugs are normally found near or below the soil line and behind leaf sheaths. Soil-applied granular insecticides can be used in areas where chinch bugs commonly occur. Foliar treatments should be directed toward the base of the plants in 25 to 30 gallons of solution per acre. Direct sprays to base of plant using a minimum of 15 to 20 gallons of total volume per acre. Apply treatments when chinch bugs are evident or causing reduced vigor of plants.