Corn is a big crop in the US, and in Pennsylvania, there are challenges with it, like stalk rots. Stalk rots come up when corn plants are weak from other problems, like weather or pests. Knowing them early can really help.
1. Anthracnose Stalk Rot: This is one of the most common in the area. It shows up when the plant is fully grown. How to spot it? The middle part of the stalk looks torn up. Also, the outer part of the stalk turns black. If the top big leaf is turning yellow, purple, or even dying, it could be anthracnose.
2. Charcoal Rot: This one looks a bit gray on the inside and outside of the stalk. The black spots in the stalk make it look like charcoal. Does it love hot, dry weather? Yes, that’s when it's most common.
3. Diplodia Stalk Rot: You have to look closely for this one. Small black spots on the lower part of the stalk are the sign. If it's very wet, the stalk might also have a white moldy look. Sometimes, you might need lab tests to be sure.
4. Fusarium Stalk Rot: Many Fusarium types cause this rot. It makes the inside of the stalk look torn, and it might turn a bit pink as it gets worse. If it's bad, the whole plant might droop and die early. The big clue? No black spots, not like the Diplodia type.
5. Gibberella Stalk Rot: See small, round, black dots on the stalk? That's probably Gibberella. What's different is you can easily scratch these dots off. Inside, you might see a pink color in the rotten part.
Farmers in Pennsylvania need to keep an eye out. Every stalk rot looks a bit different. Spotting them early means you can take care of them better, and picking the next crop becomes easier.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dale-fornoff
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Corn, Weather