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CORN SMUT
Symptoms: Frequently found in backyard gardens and small farms, corn smut is caused by the fungus, Ustilago zeae, and can appear in the stalks, leaves, tassels, or ears. It is most commonly noticed when the ears produce mushroom-like tumors or galls. These "swellings" begin as small, whitish-gray irregularities, which expand and turn black as they fill with spores. Ear galls may grow to 4-5 inches in diameter and release thousands of spores as they rupture. These fungal spores may be blown by the wind for considerable distances to new plants. Galls on leaves remain small and eventually become hard and dry.
Corn smut overwinters on garden debris and in the soil. It is carried by wind, rain and irrigation and does best in hot, dry weather. Spores may remain viable for 5 to 7 years. Wounds from various injuries, including cultivation and abrasion from blowing soil, provide points for the fungus to enter the plant.
Note: Corn smut can pass through the digestive tracts of animals and is often spread while using manures.
Control: Choose resistant varieties when available. In backyard gardens, collecting and destroying galls before the dark fungal spores are released is suggested. This will limit the number of available fungal spores and help break the disease-cycle. Reduce infection points by avoiding injury of roots, stalks, and leaves during cultivation. Prevent damage from insects, such as corn borers, with organic insecticides. Apply sulfur or copper fungicides weekly when the disease is first noticed and continue applications as long as disease conditions are favorable. Remove and destroy all plant debris after harvest and practice crop rotation the following year. Do not compost infected plant parts.
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