Pest Profile

Usually, individual or groups of infected kernels are scattered on the entire ear. A whitish fungal growth on kernels is typical. Infected kernels often exhibit a “starburst” pattern, i.e. white streaks radiating from the point of silk attachment at the cap of the kernel. The disease is most common in continuous corn. Infection takes place through the silks. Balanced moisture and fertility and control of insects that damage kernels reduce the severity of the disease. Caution: F. verticillioides can produce fumonisin, which is particularly toxic to horses and swine.

Taken from Corn Production Handbook, KSU Extension