Sunflower Maggot
Insect Identification
Images
Sunflower Maggot
Damage
The damage sustained by the sunflower maggot is low with the majority of the damage occurring to the pith in the center of the stalk. The pith is not responsible for movement of nutrients in the plant, so its removal will not affect the growth of the plant.
Affected Plants
- Sunflowers
Management
Rate of infection of the plant is high with control being difficult due to the maggot residing inside the stem. Insecticides are not encouraged for control of the sunflower maggot.
Delayed Planting
- Delaying the date at which the sunflower seeds are sown by 3-4 weeks may reduce the number of maggots contained within the plant.