July 17, 2025| Integrated Crop Management
Southern rust has continued to spread across Iowa and increase in severity since the disease was first reported in mid-July. This is not surprising considering the weather we have been having. July was warm and extremely wet across the state, and the precipitation has continued through this first 10 days of August.| Integrated Crop Management
Southern rust of corn, caused by the fungus Puccinia polysora, has recently been confirmed in counties of Indiana and Kentucky bordering southern Illinois. While not yet confirmed in Illinois this season, its proximity makes it important to stay alert, scout actively, and be prepared to manage the disease if it arrives. Recognizing Southern Rust Southern rust produces small, orange to light-brown pustules typically found on the upper surface of corn leaves, often concentrated in the upper can...| farmdoc