Leaf Spots (fungi
- Cercospora sp., Aristastoma sp., Ascochyta sp., Colletotrichum
sp., Stagnospora sp.): Various sized spots often yellowish in color or
with a yellow halo, others brown to purplish; these normally develop first on
lower leaves. With Cercospora leafspot a dark, moldy growth develops on the lower
leaf surface opposite the spot. Leafspot diseases are most serious during periods
of prolonged moist weather and on late summer or early fall plantings. Severe
leaf spotting results in defoliation with subsequent yield reductions. Practice
crop rotation; avoid cultivating fields when foliage is wet.
