Virus
Corn rot due to diplodia: what it is, how it occurs, and how to eliminate it effectively.
Diplodia Ear Rot
Diplodia Spp.
Pathogen:
Fungus
Type:
Risk to the plant:
HIGH
DESCRIPTION
WHO CAUSES IT?
Diplodia spp. It is a phytopathogenic fungus that seriously affects corn. This pathogen develops mainly in warm, humid climates and can survive in crop residues and soil for long periods. The sporangia, resistance structures of the fungus, can release spores that are dispersed by wind and rain. Once the spores reach the corn plants, they germinate and penetrate through wounds or natural openings, such as stomata. During the initial phases of infection, the fungus establishes itself in the plant tissue and begins to grow and develop, producing mycelium that invades and colonizes the ears and other plant tissues. As the disease progresses, Diplodia spp. It produces conidia that are released and can infect other nearby plants, thus spreading the infection in the field.
SYMPTOMS
Diplodia ear rot in corn is a disease that significantly affects crop yield and quality. The initial symptoms are often difficult to detect, but as the disease progresses, they become more evident.
- Appearance of brown, watery lesions on the ears.
- Development of white or gray mold on the surface of the ears.
- Rotting of the grains, which become brown and brittle.
- Formation of blackish structures in the affected tissues (pycnidia).
- Reduction in the size and weight of the ears.
- Easy detachment of the affected grains.
- Foul smell due to the decomposition of tissues.
TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY
20°C - 30°C
85% - 100%
HOW IS IT SPREAD?
Spores in the air, rain splashing, contaminated soil, infected crop residue, agricultural tools, insects vector
HOW TO REMOVE IT?
Home remedies
There are no home treatments
Chemical treatments
There are no effective treatments when the disease appears. Control of Diplodia maydis is achieved mainly by the use of resistant hybrids. On the other hand, seed treatment, adequate crop rotation and measures to eliminate infected remains of crops are recommended in order to reduce the primary inoculum. The application of balanced fertilizer formulas is important since plants are less prone to attack when nitrogen and potassium are applied in adequate proportions.
Authorized treatments in organic farming
There are no effective treatments when the disease appears. Control of Diplodia maydis is achieved mainly by the use of resistant hybrids. On the other hand, seed treatment, adequate crop rotation and measures to eliminate infected remains of crops are recommended in order to reduce the primary inoculum. The application of balanced fertilizer formulas is important since plants are less prone to attack when nitrogen and potassium are applied in adequate proportions.
Insect allies
PREDATORY MITES
LADYBUGS
LACEWINGS
PARASITIC WASPS
HOVERFLIES OR PARASITIC FLIES
PREDATORY BUGS
There are no natural allies
Mycodiplosis oidii (predatory mosquito)
EFFECTIVE PRODUCTS TO ELIMINATE THIS DISEASE
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- Use certified seeds treated with fungicides to prevent initial infection.
- Implement an appropriate crop rotation to reduce the accumulation of the fungus in the soil.
- Maintain good drainage in the fields to avoid excess humidity that favors the development of the fungus.
- Carry out regular monitoring of crops to detect symptoms early and take corrective measures.
- Remove and destroy infected crop residues to reduce inoculum sources.
- Avoid injuries to plants during agricultural practices to reduce entry points for the fungus.
- Apply specific fungicides according to technical recommendations at critical moments in crop development.
- Promote balanced fertilization to keep plants strong and less susceptible to infections.
- Control weeds that can serve as alternative hosts for the pathogen.
- Use corn varieties resistant or tolerant to Diplodia spp.
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