The wind storm from Hurricane Ike that swept across the state during the weekend of September 13-14 caused considerable damage in several corn fields, leaving huge sections of some fields with plants either laying flat on the ground and broken off at various heights along the stalk.

Generally, late-planted, greener fields suffered more severe damage than early-planted fields that were drying down at the time of the storm.

As harvest begins, some growers are expressing concerns about the development of Aspergillus and other molds, and the accumulation of toxins such as aflatoxins and vomitoxin in downed corn. Aspergillus and aflatoxins are problems commonly associated with drought-stressed conditions. However, Aspergillus can infect grain and produce aflatoxin under a wide range of conditions: temperature between 54oF and 108oF; kernel moisture between 15-25% and relative humidity above 80%. Downed corn will certainly be exposed to these conditions, especially high moisture if it rains, and since Aspergillus is a soil-borne fungus, infection could easily occur. However, growers should also pay attention to ear rots caused by Fusarium and Diplodia, which could develop if damaged ears come in contact with moist soils. Any condition that increases moisture in the grain, puts maturing grain in contact with the soil, delays maturity, restricts drying, and makes harvest operations difficult could promote mold development and toxin contamination.

Thankfully, since the storm weather conditions have generally been dry, so most of the fields with downed corn and ears in contact with the soil have not been exposed to wet conditions. To minimize potential problems, producers are advised to harvest problem fields as early as possible. A good source for harvesting suggestions may be found at “Information on Harvesting Downed Corn” by Peter Thomison and Randall Reeder in last week’s issue of this newsletter. Scout problem fields for discoloration or moldy growth on the ears and have suspect grain samples analyzed for mycotoxins before feeding to livestock.