Fall corn décor threatens Texas farms

Seasonal fall corn décor sold at large retailers across Texas has been identified to be infested with Phyllacora maydis fungus, commonly called tar spot. This fungus is not harmful to humans or pets, but threatens the state's corn farms.

Steps should be taken to promptly dispose of infested plants so the pathogen is not introduced to the environment - posing a threat to next year's corn crop being infested. Scientists with Texas A&M AgriLife Research have confirmed infected corn has been sold at multiple large retailers across the state.

Consumers who have purchased decorative corn décor, including corn stalks, should inspect it for tar spots. The fungus presents as circular black or "frog eye" spots on the corn husk. The spots may be flat with the leaf surface or slightly raised. Within these spots are spores of the dormant fungus. See Images 1 and 2.

Immediately dispose of all infested corn décor properly. Do not use the plant for compost, mulch, etc.

The steps for proper disposal of the infected corn plant(s) are:

1. Place it in a heavy-duty trash bag
2. Seal or tie the bag
3. Throw away the bag
   Disposal at local landfills, through municipal trash service, should be sufficient

   Image 2 - Corn plants infested with tar spot fungus should be promptly disposed of properly

Bagged burial of the infested corn decorations will keep the dormant fungus from sporulating after winter and spreading to corn in the spring growing season.

Texas corn farmers appreciate your help keeping next year's corn crop healthy and not impacted by this pathogen that can devastate a corn farm. Texas Corn Producers

Questions may be directed to local Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offices or Texas Corn Producers at [email protected].

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