In some parts of the Midwest, fungicide applications are being recommended by sales representatives for application to hail-damaged corn, even corn past silking.

I don’t know whether this s taking place in Kentucky, but if it is, a “yellow flag” is advisable. University corn scientists from the Midwest have communicated about this issue-we “hash it out” electronically-and there is definitely no consensus that this practice is advisable.

The diseases targeted by corn fungicides in Kentucky (and generally elsewhere) do not require wounds for infection to occur, so there is no benefit expected from the fungicide on that score. Perhaps fungicides could be useful in some circumstances, by maintaining leaf health on hail-damaged corn so that stalks are not excessively cannibalized to fill the grain. This is possible, certainly, but will it happen often? As a matter of fact, none of the plant pathologists I have communicated with think widespread use of fungicides on hail-damaged corn is justified. Yes, we all agree there is a need for continuing research on this question, and some will conduct that research this season. But if a producer is tempted to spray, keep in mind that university-based plant pathologists are unaware of any research to support this practice. Also, pay attention to the pre-harvest interval for the fungicide chosen.