What yield advantages does fungicide on corn provide?

The Yield Advantage: Corn Sprayed with Fungicide vs. Corn Without

When it comes to maximizing corn production, many factors influence yield outcomes: weather, soil health, seed variety, and, increasingly, the application of fungicides. Fungicide use in corn has become more popular in recent years, with many growers reporting significant yield gains. But how does fungicide actually impact corn yields, and is it worth the investment?

The Role of Fungicides in Corn Production

Fungicides are chemicals designed to prevent or eliminate fungal infections that can severely affect crop yields. For corn, common diseases like Northern Corn Leaf Blight, Gray Leaf Spot, and Anthracnose are all notorious for reducing the health of the plant, limiting its ability to photosynthesize and produce a strong ear.

In high-humidity environments, especially during rainy seasons, fungal spores can spread rapidly. Applying a fungicide early, often at the V6 to VT growth stages, provides a protective barrier, reducing the impact of these diseases.

Yield Differences: Fungicide vs. No Fungicide

Studies have consistently shown that corn sprayed with fungicide yields more than untreated corn. On average, the yield increase can range from 7 to 20 bushels per acre, depending on environmental factors and disease pressure. Here’s a breakdown of why:

 1. Disease Protection: Untreated corn plants are more susceptible to diseases like Gray Leaf Spot or Rust, which can attack leaves and reduce photosynthetic capacity. A healthy leaf canopy is crucial for maximizing grain fill, and fungicides help maintain this by keeping diseases at bay.

 2. Extended Plant Health: Fungicides not only control diseases but also help corn plants stay green longer, allowing for more photosynthesis late into the season. This extended “stay-green” effect leads to better kernel development and higher test weights.

 3. Stress Mitigation: Under certain conditions, fungicides have been shown to reduce plant stress caused by environmental factors, like drought or extreme heat. By reducing the stress load on the plant, fungicide-treated corn can focus more energy on producing strong, healthy ears.

 4. ROI and Profitability: While fungicide application comes with a cost, the yield advantage often outweighs the expense, making it a profitable investment. With an average cost of $20 to $30 per acre for fungicide application, a yield bump of 10 to 15 bushels per acre at current corn prices can provide a solid return on investment.

Real-World Results

In on-farm trials conducted across various states, corn sprayed with fungicide showed consistent yield improvements:

 • University of Illinois: In a multi-year study, fungicide-treated corn produced an average of 12 more bushels per acre compared to untreated corn.

 • Iowa State University: Results showed that when disease pressure was high, fungicide treatments resulted in a yield increase of up to 18 bushels per acre.

 • Nebraska Corn Growers: Growers reported yield gains ranging from 8 to 20 bushels per acre, depending on hybrid variety and growing conditions.

When Should You Apply Fungicide?

Timing is everything when it comes to fungicide application. The best results are typically seen when the fungicide is applied between the V6 and VT stages of growth, especially if weather conditions (like high humidity) create a favorable environment for fungal diseases. However, scouting your fields to assess disease pressure is critical to ensure you’re applying fungicide when it’s most needed.

Conclusion

Spraying corn with fungicide offers tangible benefits in terms of yield improvement, disease control, and overall plant health. In high-pressure environments, the yield difference between sprayed and unsprayed corn can be significant. For growers looking to maximize their return on investment and protect their crops, fungicide application is a smart and often profitable decision. The key is to carefully monitor your fields and apply at the right time, ensuring you get the most out of your crop.

For farmers committed to achieving top yields, spraying corn with fungicide isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity.

If you’d like to explore more about fungicide treatments or need aerial application services, Premium Ag Services is here to help. Our expert drone and helicopter services can ensure precision application, safeguarding your crops and maximizing your yields. Reach out today to learn more!