Scout Early and Often for Corn Leafhopper in 2026

By Linda Geist

University of Missouri Extension in-field research in 2025 cornfields showed less damage from corn leafhopper than in 2024.

MU Extension state crops and forage entomologist Ivair Valmorbida is happy about that, but he is unsure why this happened. “It is possible that corn leafhoppers arrived later in the season compared to 2024, as they do not truly overwinter in Missouri,” Valmorbida says.

The invasive pest first appeared in Missouri corn crops in 2024, carrying corn stunt disease, which causes drastic yield losses. Its travels are aided by wind from the south after events like hurricanes.

In 2024, it was confirmed in the Missouri counties of Gentry, Knox, Boone, Pike, Lincoln, Warren, Gasconade, Osage, Morgan, Bates, Laclede, Barton, Lawrence and Christian. In 2025, corn stunt was confirmed in Morgan County.

Although they only reproduce on corn, they can feed on other grass species such as gamagrass and Johnsongrass, says Valmorbida. They also have been found on alfalfa, triticale and other winter annual weeds, although there is no evidence that these plants serve as feeding hosts for corn leafhoppers.