Combating corn borers

European corn borer in corn? ✅ Biologically combat European corn borer eggs, larvae, and pupae with GREEN GUARDIA Trichogramma parasitic wasps and SF nematodes. Sustainable and effective.

1. General information about European corn borers

The European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) is one of the most significant pests in corn cultivation, but also affects peppers, hemp, and hops. These inconspicuous moths lay their eggs on corn plants. Larvae hatch from these eggs and bore into the stems, ears, and leaves, causing damage by feeding.

An infestation significantly weakens the plants, makes them more susceptible to disease, and can cause significant crop losses. Particularly problematic is that the larvae overwinter in plant debris and continue the damage the following year.

2. Detecting corn borer infestation – typical signs

Typical signs of a corn borer infestation are:

  • Drilling holes in stems, leaves and corn cobs
  • Drilling dust and droppings at the feeding sites
  • Weak or bending stems because the plant tissue is damaged
  • Reduced yields and poorer cob quality
  • Evening flying butterflies with a wingspan of 2.5–3 cm , grey-brown in colour

Anyone who notices these symptoms should intervene quickly to prevent the spread.

Recommended product

By using parasitic wasps against European corn borers, you can rely on natural support to control the infestation in your cornfield and strengthen your plants in the long term.

  • Easy to use: The cards can be easily applied directly to the corn plants – without any additional effort.
  • Natural & environmentally friendly: Parasitic wasps are useful helpers from nature and do not require any chemical additives.
  • Long-lasting effect: Supports the continuous protection of your corn plants over several weeks.

Parasitic wasps against food moths Parasitic wasps against food moths
Parasitic wasps against food moths
From €8,49
€8,49 /item

3. Preventing European corn borers – Tips for farmers and gardeners

To prevent an infestation with corn borers, preventive measures are crucial:

  • Thoroughly plow under corn stubble and plant residues after harvest to destroy overwintering larvae.
  • Observe field hygiene : Do not leave harvest residues lying around, but work them in thoroughly.
  • Observe crop rotation : Do not grow maize permanently on the same land.
  • Check infestation regularly : From early summer onwards, check plants for egg deposits and signs of feeding.
  • Promote beneficial organisms : Parasitic wasps and nematodes help to naturally control the population.
Recommended product

Targeted use in the soil: SF nematodes seek out the larvae of the European corn borer in the soil and thus contribute to a natural reduction of the pest.

  • Easy to use: Quick and easy to use in just a few steps – ideal for use in the orchard.
  • Natural & gentle: No chemical additives – safe for humans, pets and plants.
  • Long-term effect: Supports the sustainable control of codling moth and helps maintain healthy apples.

SF nematodes against fungus gnats, codling moths & ants SF nematodes against fungus gnats, codling moths & ants
SF nematodes against fungus gnats, codling moths & ants
From €9,90
€2,48 /m2

4. GREEN GUARDIA products against European corn borers

GREEN GUARDIA Trichogramma parasitic wasps against European corn borers

Trichogramma are tiny parasitic wasps that lay their eggs directly inside the eggs of the European corn borer. This kills the pest eggs before larvae can even hatch. They are applied using small cards distributed among the corn plants, thus biologically regulating the population from the very beginning.

GREEN GUARDIA SF nematodes against European corn borers

SF nematodes are microscopically small beneficial organisms that specifically target the larvae and pupae of the European corn borer. They penetrate the overwintering caterpillars and halt their development. They are particularly effective in soil and on post-harvest plant residue, as they interrupt the pest's life cycle.

👉 The combination of Trichogramma parasitic wasps (against the eggs) and SF nematodes (against the larvae in the soil) offers a holistic and chemical-free strategy to combat European corn borers reliably and sustainably.

✅ Conclusion: The European corn borer is a feared pest in corn cultivation that can cause significant crop losses. With consistent prevention and the targeted use of GREEN GUARDIA Trichogramma parasitic wasps and SF nematodes, the pest can be naturally, effectively, and permanently controlled .