Fusarium Kernel or Ear Rot
Symptoms
- Infected groups or individual kernels may be scattered on the ear and be covered with a whitish pink to lavender mycelium
- Fungal growth is most often found at the ear tip
- Infected kernels may also have the "starburst" symptom, which is white lines radiating out from a point on the kernel
- Kernels can be infected at the embryo end and symptoms may not be visible
- Symptoms may vary according to the genotype of the corn hybrid, environment, or disease severity
Pathogen Involved
- Fusarium moniliforme, F. proliferatum, and F. subglutinans (fungi)
- These pathogen produce fumonisin (a mycotoxin) in grain
- Overwinters in corn residue
- May infect systemically through stalk
Time of Occurrence
- Occurs during or after flowering
Conditions Favoring Disease
- Hot and dry weather after flowering
- Minimum tillage
- Damaged kernels and ears
Disease Management
- Corn hybrids differ in susceptibility, but resistant hybrids not reported
- Attempt to maintain appropriate fertility and moisture
- Insect control may be helpful