By Scout Nelson
Unusually warm and wet weather has created grain quality concerns for Nebraska corn producers as harvest begins. According to University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Extension specialists, excessive rainfall has increased the risk of kernel sprouting, ear rot diseases, and mycotoxin contamination.
Many growers have reported signs of vivipary, or premature kernel sprouting, along with ear rot infections in corn fields. Wet field conditions have also delayed harvest in some areas, increasing the potential for further grain quality losses.
September's heavy rainfall and above-normal temperatures created ideal conditions for fungal diseases. The excess moisture also encouraged kernels to germinate while still attached to the cob, reducing overall grain quality.
Insect pressure has added to the problem this season. High populations of western bean cutworm and corn earworm damaged corn ears, creating openings that allow disease-causing fungi to infect kernels and increase contamination risks.
Vivipary develops when mature kernels are exposed to additional moisture and begin sprouting before harvest. Experts recommend harvesting severely affected fields early and drying grain to below 14% moisture to help maintain quality during storage.
Several ear rot diseases, including Fusarium, Gibberella, Aspergillus, and Diplodia, have been identified in Nebraska fields. Insect feeding and hail damage often contribute to infections by creating entry points for fungal pathogens.
Some of these fungi can produce mycotoxins such as aflatoxins, fumonisins, and vomitoxin, which may pose health risks to livestock and affect grain marketability. Because visible symptoms do not always indicate contamination levels, producers are encouraged to scout fields and consider laboratory testing when necessary.
To reduce losses, Extension specialists advise early harvest, proper grain drying, removal of damaged material, and regular monitoring of stored grain. Careful storage management and future insect control efforts can help protect grain quality and limit disease-related problems.
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Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Weather