Frequency and Timing of Fungicide Applications for the Control of Gray Leaf Spot in Maize

Timing and frequency of fungicide treatments for management and control of gray leaf spot of maize, caused by Cercospora zeae-maydis, were quantified with the logistic model and area under disease progress curve (AUDPC). Control was most effective when spraying commenced as disease severity levels reached 2 to 3% of the leaf area blighted and when lesions were restricted to the basal five leaves of the maize plant. Highest grain yields were achieved with treatments providing disease control until the crop was physiologically mature. To provide this length of control, the frequency and number of fungicide applications varied with the stage of host development when disease was first apparent; with early infections, more fungicide treatments were necessary to provide protection until physiological maturity. Yield responses to fungicides appeared to be a function of the growth stage of the host when sprays were initiated, the amount of disease at spray date, the length of fungicide control, and effective control through to physiological maturity.