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| anthracnose stalk rot is no different than other stalk rots in that it is the result of too much committment to the ear developement for the environment. although the cornborers can be an environmental problem it is more likely, annually, that high plant density reduced light penetration into the canapy, resulting in less photosynthesis, less carbohydrate available to support both the grain filling and the root viability. Consequently, roots lose resistance to soil saprophytes, the plant wilts (suddenly turn gray), weak pathogens such as Colletotrichum graminicola invade the dead stalk, pith tissue withdraws from the rind (weakens the stalk strength by 30% because it is changed from a rod to a tube) and the stalk breaks. I suggest that you consult with your seed provider for best advice on proper plant density for your preferred hybrid. Each hybrid and each year's environment favors a different population, but some hybrids are more tolerant to annual variances than others. | |
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anthracnose problem in a field
