Author: Kiersten Wise
Planning Unit: Plant Pathology
Major Program: Integrated Pest Management
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
Corn nematodes have the potential to be yield-limiting pests of Kentucky corn. However, there have been no previous comprehensive surveys to understand corn nematode distribution in Kentucky. Surveys began in 2019, and were repeated in 2020. This year, 16 Kentucky counties were surveyed by County Agents for corn nematodes. At least three samples were submitted per county, for a total of 66 samples examined for species and level of plant parasitic nematodes. Only one field had no nematodes detected. At least one species of nematode was detected in the remaining 65 fields, with spiral, lesion, and lance nematodes detected most frequently. Stunt nematodes were detected in more fields in 2020 compared to 2019. Needle, stubby root, and root-knot nematodes were not detected in any samples. Nematode levels and species varied widely across the sampled counties, and within a county. These results are being analyzed with the 2019 results and will be distributed to Agents to help with questions about corn nematodes in their counties.
The problem:Red crown rot is a newer disease in the Northern US. It has been increasing its spread o... Read More