Covered Kernel Smut (fungus - Sporisorium sorghi): This smut disease was once quite destructive but is seldom seen now because most seed is chemically treated. The disease destroys all kernels in a head and replaces them with a cone-shaped gall or may affect only portions of a panicle. At harvest time, these galls are broken and spores contaminate the outer surface of other kernels. This disease is controlled by use of chemical seed treatment, use of clean seed and planting resistant hybrids.
