Gray leaf spot
scouted July 27, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Cercospora zea-maydis
- Background
- A corn field in Davidson County was being scouted and it was oberved that the leaves had strip like spots on them. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The spots on the leaves were diagnosed as Gray Leaf spot of corn caused by the fungus Cercospora zea-maydis. This disease is present in almost all growing seasons, but it only causes economic losses if the conditions favor disease development. Fungicides are labeled for gray leaf spot; resistant hybrids are available, and crop rotation and tillage reduce the fungus's survival.
- Resources
