Tar spot is a fungal disease that can affect corn crops. It is caused by the fungus Phyllachora maydis, which produces black spots on corn leaves. These spots can be raised and do not rub off.
Tar spot can cause yield losses in corn. In some cases, yield losses can be as high as 50%. The severity of the yield losses depends on the severity of the infection, the growth stage of the corn crop when the infection occurs, and the weather conditions.
Tar spot can be found in most corn-growing areas in the United States. However, it is more common in areas with warm, wet weather.
There are a few things that farmers can do to manage tar spot. One is to plant corn varieties that are resistant to the disease. Another is to rotate corn with other crops, such as soybeans. Farmers can also apply fungicides to their corn crops to help prevent or control tar spot.
If you think that your corn crop may have tar spot, it is important to have a sample tested by a plant pathologist. This will help to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of action for managing the disease.
How to track the spread of tar spot
University researchers are working to track the spread of tar spot. They are using two types of air samplers to trap spores of the fungus. One type of sampler is active and brings in air, while the other type is passive and traps spores that are already in the air.
The researchers are also asking farmers to submit samples of suspected tar spot to the MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic for confirmation. This will help the clinic track the progression of the disease across the state.
By tracking the spread of tar spot, researchers can better understand the disease and develop more effective management strategies.
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Categories: Missouri, Crops, Corn