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Southern Rust found in some SD corn

An unusual disease for South Dakota corn has been detected in two of the state’s southeastern counties. The SDSU Extension says Southern Rust has been confirmed in Turkey and Lincoln Counties. Weather conditions have been warm and humid, which Southern Rust likes. Extension officials, however, say much of the corn is past the dent growth stage so should not be greatly affected. Those with late planted corn are urged to scout their fields and prepare to apply fungicide if most plants are covered by more than 15 percent with the rust.

Southern Rust is different from common rust in corn which appears on the lower side of leaves. Southern Rust pustules occur on the upper side of leaves and have “a yellow halo surrounding them” when the leaf is held against the light.