Where there is flooding and ponding there will likely be an increased amount of stalk and stem rots.

Corn and soybeans at this stage in the growing season can withstand ponded situation for 2 to 4 days. Plants that die due to ponding won’t continue to fill grain causing lighter test weights. This is important because at the dent stage corn has yet to accumulate 1/3 of its dry matter to the grain.

In addition to stem rots, soybean pods that are under water may be affected by phomopsis. Phomopsis is of particular concern for seed production fields since it causes seeds to decay and reduces germination. Seeds infested with Phomopsis are cracked and shriveled and usually have a reduced germination rate.

Now is also a good time to be checking out fields to see what other types of diseases might be present. Why you may ask? While there may not be much that can be done now knowing what diseases are present can aid in the selection of corn hybrids and soybean varieties, as far as disease resistance and tolerance are concerned, for next year.

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