Controlling Earwigs on Sweet Corn with Insecticidal Soap

Earwigs congregating in sweet corn whorls look alarming but are easily managed with a simple homemade spray.

DIY Insecticidal Soap Recipe

• 1 quart hot water
• 2 tablespoons liquid dish soap (Dawn recommended)

Mix, cool, pour into spray bottle.

Application

• When: Early morning (dew present, bees less active).
• Frequency: Twice weekly.
• Target: Spray into whorls and leaf axils where earwigs hide.
• Coverage: Thorough but not dripping.

Why It Works

• Soap disrupts insect cuticle → dehydration.
• No residual toxicity; safe up to harvest.
• Inexpensive, always on hand.

Commercial Alternative

Safer Brand Insecticidal Soap (OMRI-listed) — same principle, consistent formulation.

Note

Earwigs are also omnivores—they eat aphids and decaying matter. Tolerate low numbers; spray only if damage (tattered silk, kernel feeding) appears.