Growers in Kansas are facing a big challenge as corn leafhoppers have been detected in fields statewide, according to Rodrigo Onofre, a plant pathologist at Kansas State University.

These pests transmit a serious disease known as corn stunt spiroplasma, which has typically affected southern states like Texas and Louisiana, but is now appearing in Kansas, posing a dual threat to producers. New reports indicate confirmed cases of corn stunt across various regions, from southwest counties such as Seward and Grant to northeastern areas like Brown and Doniphan.

The disease severely impacts both sweet and field corn, hindering early growth and causing ear damage and leaf discoloration. Infected plants can turn from green to red or purple within 30 days of infection, indicating sugar accumulation as the plant responds to the disease. Late-planted and double-cropped fields are particularly vulnerable, with growers reporting substantial bushel losses per acre under severe conditions. Controlling corn stunt involves managing the corn leafhopper population, as fungicides are ineffective against this bacterial pathogen.

To identify the pests, growers should look for dark spots between their eyes and V-shaped markings on their thorax. Effective control measures include insecticide treatments and planting leafhopper-resistant corn varieties. With minimal treatment thresholds, even a single leafhopper sighting may necessitate intervention, leading to multiple insecticide applications throughout the season.