The three things that help in tar spot management include starting with a healthy hybrid, timely application of fungicide, and improving overall plant health. Tar spot usually attacks plants in conjunction with other diseases – so hybrids with better overall plant health tolerate tar spot pressure better than those without. LG Seeds is committed to bringing healthier plants to market that improve yields in many environments – including environments with heavy tar spot pressure.

The LG Seeds hybrids below have a very robust health system and have shown that they can tolerate tar spot. Now, keep in mind that under heavy tar spot pressure, no hybrid is immune. However, these products have shown good resistance and impressive overall plant health.

1. LG50C93-3110
2. LG52C42
3. LG54C11-5222EZ
4. LG54C76VT2PRO
5. LG57C97VT2PRO
6. LG59C72
7. LG60C33VT2PRO
8. LG62C35VT2PRO
9. LG62C71
10. LG66C28

Using a fungicide is another effective way to combat tar spot.  Many of the new class of fungicides have both preventative and curative properties that help to mitigate tar spot. They also help translocate nutrients up and down the plant for a prolonged healthier period. Some fungicides may also reduce tar spot, although little data exists regarding application timing for efficacy and economic response.  Fungicides, in general, keep a plant healthier, longer, which is one of the best ways to lessen the impact of tar spot in corn.

Improving overall plant health is usually associated with nutrients. Certainly Nitrogen, Calcium, and others are paramount in maintaining the healthiest plants. Check out our article, Nutrient Functions in Crops, to learn about each nutrient and the role it plays in corn health.

If you’re seeing tar spot in your fields, contact your local LG Seeds Agronomist to discuss a hybrid plan for next year.