August 2024
Mill agronomists have observed symptoms of tar spot in corn in late August a few weeks following the tropical storm "Debby" that swept through the Mid-Atlantic area.
Tar Spot can significantly reduce plant health and yields if present early in the growing season or proliferates rapidly due to warm, humid conditions. The first reported case of Tar Spot on corn in MD was late August of 2023 found by Mill agronomists and confirmed by MDA testing.
Simultaneously, turf armyworms are being found by our turf agronomist in lawns. Armyworms can multiply rapidly and devastate grass lawns and pasture within days requiring a replant. Fungicides and insecticides can control and treat both conditions. Stay observant and check if there are signs of fungus or insects a few weeks following a storm system from the south and if spotted, contact a Mill agronomist for effective solutions.
