By Linda Geist
University of Missouri Extension specialists are urging Missouri growers to scout corn crops for corn leafhopper.
It was first confirmed in southwestern Missouri in Christian County in 2024 and in Lawrence and Boone counties on the week of July 7, 2025, says MU Extension state crops entomologist Ivair Valmorbida.
The Crop Protection Network reports that corn leafhopper has been found in four states. It also is prevalent in South America and Mexico.
Following last year’s detection in Missouri, growers, crop consultants and industry partners urged farmers to be on the lookout for the pest.
The small, pale yellow to greenish yellow insect feeds on corn and its wild relatives. It carries pathogens that cause corn stunt disease. This leads to deformed grain, loose kernels and short stalks. If populations are high, corn leafhoppers can also reduce yields due to feeding on the phloem.
Source : missouri.edu