By Andi Anderson
The unexpected sight of blackened corn has raised many eyebrows. If you've noticed your white attire turning black upon visiting these fields, you're not alone. The primary culprit? Saprophytic fungi. These fungi thrive on dead plant material and are currently flourishing due to the moist and warm conditions combined with the prevailing humidity and morning dew.
It's crucial to distinguish between corn affected by these fungi and corn with tar spot disease. The former manifests as a fuzzy appearance while the latter is identified by unique, irregular spots scattered on the leaf's surface.
There's some good news, though. These fungi aren't notorious toxin producers. As a result, once harvested, the grain remains relatively clean, presenting no harm to consumers. Moreover, the fungi's presence this year won't spell trouble for corn diseases next year as they aren't pathogens.
A word of caution for those with respiratory issues or allergies: wearing dust masks is advisable. These fungi contribute significantly to mold counts, which can be problematic for some individuals. To ensure safety, regular cleaning of combine engines and filters is recommended.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Corn