Corn flea beetles are among the first insects to feed on emerging popcorn. Early feeding often occurs during cool weather when corn growth is retarded. They overwinter as adults and populations are generally highest following mild winters. Adult females lay eggs in the soil at the base of popcorn plants. The larvae, which resemble small rootworms, feed on popcorn roots but cause no significant injury
Corn flea beetles are leaf feeders. They chew long, narrow feeding scars in the leaves. Heavy damage gives plants a grayish or frosted appearance. The beetles can carry the pathogen that causes bacterial leaf blight. Selection of popcorn varieties resistant to this disease should be considered.
Treat if flea beetles are active in the field and most plants are taking on a frosted appearance and some plants are dying. Damage is most serious during cool periods when popcorn growth is slow.
Counter or Furadan at planting time will reduce flea beetle injury. Ambush, Asana XL, Capture, Lannate, Lorsban, Mustang, Penncap-M, Pounce, or Sevin can be used as foliar sprays if feeding damage becomes severe. Corn flea beetles can carry the pathogen that causes bacterial leaf blight. Selection of popcorn varieties resistant to this disease should be considered.