Exserohilum leaf blight of millet is caused by the fungus Exserohilum rostratum. The pathogen overwinters in infested crop debris and seed. Spores (conidia) are disseminated by wind. The disease is favored by warm, humid weather.
Exserohilum leaf blight symptoms appear on leaves as small lesions delimited by plant veins. Lesions are initially dark brown, but later become light brown. The centers of lesions become a straw color with age, and have a slight browning or yellowing on their margins. The disease is of little importance in the High Plains region.
No biological control strategies have been developed for Drechslera leaf spot.
Disease management strategies are not recommended for Exserohilum leaf blight because it occurs so infrequently. Crop rotation, sanitation of crop debris, and weed control may reduce pathogen survival and disease severity.
No chemical controls are available or needed for Exserohilum leaf spot.
Categories: Millet, Disease, Exserohilum Leaf Spot
Date: 03/22/2005