Purdue Field Crop Pathology
It is important to monitoring for diseases to make an informed decision if a fungicide is necessary. As a reminder for disease to occur three things need to be present; 1. Virulent Pathogen, 2. Susceptible Host, and 3. Favorable Environment….
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Wheat in Indiana is starting to head out in southern Indiana and flowering will probably start this weekend. During flowering (anthesis) warm, wet weather with high relative humidity will favor the development of Fusarium head blight (scab). Due to the…
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In Indiana, tar spot has been an annual concern since 2018 when growers experienced 20-60 bu/A loss. This past season favorable weather conditions led to another severe epidemic where there are reports of fields experiencing 50% reduction in yields across…
Read MoreBoth tar spot and southern corn rust continue to be documented across Indiana (Figures 1 and 2). I suggest if you have not gotten out and looked for these diseases now is the time. Even if your corn is approaching…
Read MoreRecent rains and increased humidity across Indiana have increased the risk for foliar diseases to develop in both corn and soybean. Much of the corn throughout the state has begun to tassel and soybeans are flowering. We are starting to…
Read MoreYes, we have found active tar spot in Indiana. Early planted corn in Indiana is reaching mid- to late-vegetative stages and some tasseling in the south. Therefore, it is time to start monitoring for diseases to make an informed decision…
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About Us
Our Field Crop Pathology Team is responsible for developing and executing an Extension programs that educates agribusiness clientele on the importance of effective and economical disease management for agronomic crops. Field crop diseases can significantly impact the health of these commodities, and result in losses in profitability. Additionally, over 20 diseases of corn, soybean, and wheat may affect crops in a single growing season, making disease identification and management a primary concern.
The program is focused on recognizing and understanding new diseases and their potential impact on Indiana agriculture, and quickly and effectively distributing information in the event of a disease threat to Indiana crop production.