Tar Spot is a fungal disease has rapidly become a significant concern for corn growers across the Midwest. As we all know, sometimes a great offense is your best defense. That’s why Latham Seeds has been placing a greater emphasis on developing hybrids with Tar Spot tolerance in recent years.
Latham’s 2025 Corn Hybrids
Latham’s 2025 corn hybrid lineup includes three new hybrids with great Tar Spot scores. If you’re seeing Tar Spot in your fields this growing season, consider one of these for 2025 planting:
Early scouting and timely treatment are critical in managing this disease and protecting yield potential.
Understanding Tar Spot
Tar spot is caused by the fungus Phyllachora maydis and can be identified by its characteristic black, tar-like spots on corn leaves. These spots can merge, causing significant leaf damage, which leads to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf senescence, and ultimately, lower yields. The disease thrives in cool, humid conditions and can spread quickly, making early detection essential.
The Importance of Early Scouting
Scouting early and often is your best defense against tar spot. Begin monitoring your fields as soon as conditions become favorable—typically in late spring or early summer when temperatures are cool, and humidity is high. Keep a close eye on the lower canopy, where the disease usually starts. Catching tar spot in its early stages allows you to make informed decisions about fungicide applications, which can help mitigate the disease’s impact.
Treatment Strategies
If tar spot is detected, a timely fungicide application is crucial. Choose fungicides with proven efficacy against tar spot and apply them at the right growth stage for maximum effectiveness. In some cases, a second application may be necessary, especially in high-risk environments or when conditions favor disease development.
Top-Performing Latham Hybrids
At Latham Seeds, we’ve been rigorously testing our hybrids in a variety of conditions to ensure they can withstand the challenges posed by tar spot. Learn more about how hybrids handle Tar Spot this fall during Training in Excellence (TIE) plots!
By prioritizing early scouting and timely treatment, and by choosing hybrids with strong disease resistance, you can minimize the impact of tar spot on your fields. As always, we’re here to support you with the best products and agronomic advice to help you succeed.