Cotton Cercospora Leaf Spot Observed Across NC

Aug 12, 2019

By Lindsey Thiessen

Cercospora leaf spot of cotton (Fig. 1), caused Cercospora gossypina (syn. Mycosphaerella gossypina), has been observed across North Carolina cotton growing regions. Foliar symptoms include reddish lesions that enlarge to have white to light brown centers. These symptoms may also be similar to other foliar diseases, like Stemphylium leaf spot or Alternaria leaf spot. Symptoms may also appear similar to target spot due to the presence of concentric rings. For accurate identification, contact your Cooperative Extension Agent and/or submit a sample to the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic.

Figure 1. Leaf spots of cotton caused by Cercospora found in NC

This disease is usually associated with nutrient-deficient or stressed cotton. While it seems counter-intuitive to our experiences with other leaf spots that are more severe with wet conditions, this disease is often found associated with drought-stressed plants. Plants that are unable to take-up potassium due to insufficient soil moisture or poor-root development are most prone to injury. Significant losses may be observed from premature defoliation or when multiple foliar diseases are found. Fungicides alone are not an effective control for this disease. Maintaining plant vigor with adequate soil fertility and preventing drought stress through irrigation where possible helps delay the onset and severity of outbreaks. For more information regarding cotton disease management, see the 2019 Cotton Information book.

Source : ncsu.edu

Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.