By Tamra Jackson-Ziems and Dylan Mangel et.al
Key Takeaways for Corn Disease
Tar spot confirmed this week.
Treatment is not recommended at this time.
Monitor tar spot progression regularly as crop matures.
Reevaluate the need for treatment during early to mid-reproductive stages.
Southern rust not currently reported in the U.S.
Crop diseases have been especially important in parts of Nebraska during the last two years. Before you make a fungicide decision on corn or soybean, there are several factors to consider.
Corn Disease
Tar Spot
Tar spot (Figure 1) was confirmed in several counties in Nebraska this week. This disease is caused by a fungus (Phyllachora maydis) that overwinters very effectively in Nebraska. The likelihood of your corn developing tar spot is greater if there was substantial tar spot disease in the past (because of the presence of more overwintering fungus to cause disease again).
The tar spot fungus is also favored by wet conditions but prefers cooler temperatures averaging 60–70°F. That’s why we often observe tar spot development early in the season (now), as well as a surge of disease often again late season when conditions are more favorable.
Overhead irrigation, such as through center pivots, can also increase the chances of tar spot development as it reduces the temperature by several degrees and increases relative humidity and leaf wetness for several hours. Pivot-irrigated fields should be scouted regularly, as they are at a higher risk for the disease, as well as areas where frequent rainfall occurs with a history of substantial tar spot pressure..
Source : unl.edu