Northern corn leaf spot
scouted Aug. 20, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Bipolaris zeicola
- Background
- A corn field in Alleghany County was being scouted, and it was observed that the field was affected by brown leaf spots. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The issue was identified as Northern corn leaf spot caused by Bipolaris zeicola. Northern corn leaf spot prefers high humidity and warm temperatures. The disease spreads through airborne spores from infected fields as well as infected crop residue. Northern leaf spot materializes as circular brown lesions that run in a line along leaf veins. These lesions are described as appearing like "strings of pearls". Crop rotations and tillage, along with the use of resistant hybrids, is recommended for managing Northern corn leaf spot.
- Resources