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Cost of tar spot control likely to limit applications

A field crops educator says she wouldn’t be surprised if the current corn price limits how farmers manage tar spot this year.

Michigan State University Extension’s Monica Jean says many farmers are questioning, “Is it worth your return on investment when it’s a $40 application and their price of corn is not as great as we would like it to be?”

Located in central Michigan, Jean tells Brownfield her region has needed recent rains because of dry field conditions and tar spot risk is variable.

“I walked a lot of cornfields last week looking for tar spot,” she says. “I didn’t see much. I know if you run the app right now, it says high risk, but what that really means is it means you need to go out and scout.”

Fifteen counties in the state have confirmed reports this season, mostly in southern and west Michigan along with the Thumb.

Jean says spraying for tar spot is an annual decision and variety selection next year is a farmer’s best way to prepare for future outbreaks.  

AUDIO: Monica Jean, Michigan State University Extension