Dr. Bob Kemerait has confirmed our first southern corn rust in Georgia for this season. “Late to arrive, but here now and weather conditions are favorable for spread. Only one field is known (Baker County) but could easily be anywhere in SW Georgia. Any corn not yet in dough/dent stages could be vulnerable in SW Georgia. Not a lot of rust out there now, but could build quickly. Should they spray? Depends on current growth stage. I wouldn’t spray before VT tassel stage, but if corn is still tasseling or silking or early milk, I would consider it in SW Georgia.”
If you have questions, give us a call at the Worth County Extension Office at 229-776-8216.