By Scout Nelson
This year’s growing season brought major challenges to parts of Nebraska, with southern rust severely affecting corn crops across several regions. The disease was especially intense in eastern Nebraska, marking one of the most severe outbreaks in recent history. To address misinformation, Nebraska Extension experts clarified several myths about southern rust and its causes.
Myth 1: Overwintering Rust
The fungus Puccinia polysora cannot overwinter in Nebraska. It needs living corn to survive and lacks an alternate host. Spores usually travel north from subtropical regions like Mexico, where corn grows year-round. Southern rust typically reaches Nebraska by late July, but this year it appeared unusually early — with the first confirmed sighting on July 9, the earliest on record.
Myth 2: Infected Grass
Southern rust does not infect nearby grasses such as brooms. Rust fungi usually affect only one or a few specific plant species. While several rust diseases may appear at the same time, each is caused by a different pathogen.
Myth 3: Super Strains
There is no new “super strain” of southern rust. The severe outbreak resulted from prolonged warm, humid weather — ideal for the fungus to thrive. Southern rust is common in Nebraska, but only occasionally causes major damage, such as in 2006, when similar conditions led to heavy yield losses and stalk lodging.
Myth 4: Fungicide Failures
Fungicides were effective in controlling southern rust this season. Data from multiple states, compiled by the Crop Protection Network, confirm their performance. Experts emphasize that even the best fungicide needs proper timing and coverage to work effectively.
Accurate information remains vital for effective crop management. For reliable diagnosis or disease management guidance, contact Nebraska Extension or the UNL Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-awakr10
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Weather