Management of Common Rust on Sweet Corn with Resistance and Fungicides

Abstract

The prevalence and importance of common rust (Puccinia sorghi Schwein.) on sweet corn (Zea mays L.) has increased in the past decade in the northern Corn Belt and in areas of Florida where the crop is produced in the winter. This paper is a synthesis of the results from research projects recently undertaken to improve disease-management decisions for common rust on sweet corn. Research projects have focused on the development and spread of rust, genetic and physiological resistance to rust, the relationships between incidence and severity of rust, the effects of rust on yield of sweet corn, and the timing of fungicide applications to control rust. Based on this research, a strategy is presented for managing common rust on sweet corn.