The team digs into disease dynamics in Nebraska cornfields during a year of high humidity and timely rains. Pioneer Field Agronomists Mike Wardyn and Kevin Keller are joined by Dr. Tamra Jackson-Ziems, Extension Plant Pathologist with the University of Nebraska, for a critical conversation on fungal and bacterial disease trends, with a focus on southern rust, tar spot, gray leaf spot, and bacterial leaf streak.

From fungicide timing and efficacy to scouting strategies and drone vs. aerial applications, the team shares boots-on-the-ground insights and long-term management tips. Tamra also discusses the emerging threat of tar spot in fringe counties, the importance of hybrid selection, and what new research is revealing about disease progression and control.

Topics include:

• Southern rust vs. tar spot: Which is more aggressive?
• How canopy humidity and crop stage affect disease development
• Fungicide timing myths vs. reality
• Field-level insights on application method and product choice
• The latest on fusarium kernel rot, corn stunt disease, and bacterial trends

Find more information about the University of Nebraska plan diagnostics lab here: https://plantpathology.unl.edu/ 

Kick'N Dirt is a podcast about agriculture in the U.S. This show hosts guests to talk about corn and soybean production, including growers, agronomists and other industry professionals.

Hosted by Mike Wardyn, Kevin Keller, and Kevin Kowalaski.

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