Asian soybean rust found on kudzu in Georgia

(Southeast Farm Press) – The detection of Southern corn rust in Seminole, Worth, Terrell, Ben Hill, Brooks and Atkinson counties, along with finds of Asian soybean rust on kudzu in Decatur and Miller Counties, continues to be of significant importance to our growers.

The 10-day forecast calls for only modest chances of rain, which could help to slow the spread of the rust diseases. However, the highs are predicted be in the upper 80s to lower 90s which could keep foliage wet with dew later in the morning, thus increasing likelihood of infections to occur.

For corn growers, we believe the crop is at risk to southern rust at least through the dough stage. Some would argue that the crop needs to be protected until “black layer”. I just don’t have enough data to support or refute that late timing.

At this moment, the amount of spore inoculum, although present, is probably low-to-moderate in volume because 1.) the disease is just beginning in the state and 2.) by spraying their fields with fungicides, corn growers in Georgia have helped to keep the spread of disease more confined than it might have been.

Northern corn leaf blight: It is very clear that all corn hybrids are NOT created equal when it comes to NCLB and some company’s have hybrids that are much more susceptible. Although it is too early (at least for me) to identify those hybrids, be assured that after this season I will be able to give you better information on when to expect greater problems with NCLB.

Peanuts: Growers should be protecting their crop now from leaf spot diseases. I have not had reports of white mold yet, but I think it is well on its way. Be vigilant!