The causes and prevention of stem rot in maize

Corn stem rot, also known as corn stalk rot or bacterial wilt, has become a significant threat to maize production in recent years. The frequent exchange of maize inbred lines and hybrid varieties between regions has led to the widespread planting of original inbred lines and hybrids with poor disease resistance. This has facilitated the spread of the disease across corn-producing areas, causing plants to wither and reducing grain filling, which significantly impacts yield and causes substantial economic losses for farmers and companies alike. The incidence of this disease in intercropped maize and summer-sown maize can reach up to 10%–25%, sometimes even as high as 48.6%, resulting in a yield loss of approximately 25%. Current control measures mainly rely on resistant varieties, but due to the long breeding cycle, these varieties often lose their resistance within 4–5 years, leading to serious problems in production. The occurrence of the disease follows specific patterns. Symptoms typically appear from the late milk stage to the wax ripening stage, beginning from the lower leaves and progressing upward. Common symptoms include blue and dry stems and leaves, sudden blighting under certain conditions, soft rot at the base of the stem, and ear rot with drooping ears and loose grains. The disease is caused by various pathogenic bacteria, including *Pythium* and *Fusarium*, which thrive under different environmental conditions. *Pythium* prefers wetter soils, while *Fusarium* thrives in drier conditions. The disease is soil-borne and persists through winter, spreading via wind, rain, irrigation, machinery, and insects. Continuous cropping increases pathogen buildup, making the problem worse. Early-planted and early-maturing varieties are more susceptible, as they coincide with optimal spore germination conditions. Soil type, fertility, and drainage also play a role in disease severity. In general, spring corn is affected earlier than summer corn, and some varieties show stronger resistance than others. To manage this disease effectively, several comprehensive measures can be taken. First, breeding and cultivating disease-resistant varieties is crucial. Several inbred lines and hybrids have been developed with improved resistance, such as Bai Ji 815, Va35, and Zhongdan 11. Farmers should choose varieties suitable for their local conditions. Second, removing diseased plant residues after harvest helps reduce pathogen load. Third, crop rotation with non-host crops like rice or vegetables prevents pathogen accumulation. Fourth, adjusting sowing times can help avoid peak disease periods. For example, delaying spring maize planting can reduce disease incidence. Fifth, proper fertilization, especially potassium application, improves plant health and reduces susceptibility. Lastly, biological control methods using beneficial microbes like *Trichoderma* and seed treatments with zinc sulfate or compound fertilizers can provide effective protection against stem rot. These integrated strategies are essential for sustainable maize production and minimizing economic losses.

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A feed supplement is a product that is added to an animal's diet to provide additional nutrients that may be lacking in the animal's regular feed. Feed supplements can come in many forms, including powders, pellets, liquids, and blocks, and can contain a variety of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and probiotics. They are commonly used in livestock and poultry production to improve animal health, growth, and productivity. Some common feed supplements include calcium supplements for laying hens, probiotics for gut health in pigs, and electrolyte supplements for horses.

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