Tar Spot is a fungal disease that can severely damage corn crops. It is characterized by black spots on the leaves of corn plants. Tar Spot can reduce photosynthesis and yield in corn crops.
Tar Spot has been a growing problem in Indiana in recent years. The disease is favored by warm, humid weather. This year, Indiana has experienced warm, humid weather conditions that have been favorable for the spread of Tar Spot.
As of August 9, 2023, Tar Spot has been positively identified in 23 counties in Indiana. The counties with confirmed cases of Tar Spot include:
• Adams
• Allen
• Bartholomew
• Blackford
• Carroll
• Cass
• Clark
• Clay
• Daviess
• DeKalb
• Elkhart
• Grant
• Greene
• Hamilton
• Huntington
• Kosciusko
• LaPorte
• Madison
• Noble
• St. Joseph
• Whitley
Farmers in these counties are urged to apply fungicide to their corn crops to protect them from Tar Spot. Fungicide applications should be made at the V6 growth stage of the corn plant.
Tar Spot is a serious threat to corn crops in Indiana. Farmers are urged to monitor their crops for signs of Tar Spot and to apply fungicide as needed.
The good news is that there are things farmers can do to fight back against Tar Spot:
• Use Strong Corn Plants: Choosing corn plants that are naturally tougher against Tar Spot can help stop the disease from spreading.
• Clean Up Old Plants: Getting rid of old corn plant bits can help stop the disease from coming back the next year.
• Spray Medicine at the Right Time: Farmers can spray special medicine, called fungicide, on their corn. They should do this when the corn is about six leaves tall.
• Check the Corn a Lot: Farmers need to keep an eye on their corn fields. If they see any Tar Spot, they should use the medicine right away.
• Pick Corn on Time: When the corn is ready, it's best to pick it quickly. This stops the disease from getting worse.
By following these tips, farmers can help to protect their corn crops from Tar Spot and maintain yields.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-luc-pouliot
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Corn