posted
We just moved into our new home not too long ago, and before we moved in, someone was kind enough to put a cob of corn out for the squirrels. Well some of the kernels managed to grow into stalks of corn. I figured since Mother Nature was kind enough to seed them, then I would let them grow, even though they are in my flower beds.
Well, yesterday I was weeding my flower beds and noticed that the husk on one of the stalks was pushed open. I figured a squirrel or something had gotten in it. I walked around to the front of the stalk, and noticed something really wrong with the ear of corn.
It looked like cucoons or something to that affect. I put on gloves, I don't normally wear them I like the feel of the dirt, and grabbed the camera. I got pics of it while still of the stalk, and pics after I removed it from the stalk.
It looks like the kernels are badly formed and there is black stuff inside of the "kernels"
What happened to my corn? Is this a bad plant all together, or a bug? I just threw the ear into the trash, didn't want to risk contaminating my compost heap or anything.
I set up a page on my web site for pics of my corn problem Corn problems
Thanks
Shirley
bbbbbbbbb Shirley
From: Medora, IL, 50 miles north of St Louis | Registered: Aug 2004
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posted
Unfortunately, you have been the victim of corn smut! (cute name for a fungus) Generally the spores are transmitted by watering or wind but can be introduced through manure. The fungus spores can live in the soil for up to seven years until the conditions are right for it to grow. It might be affecting a few ears or all of them. Don't throw infected plants and ears in your compost!
Next year be sure that the seeds you buy are a "smut resistant" variety.
BTW... the smut is edible, it's just really ugly...
From: Cedar Hill Washington | Registered: Aug 2002
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Bill...Bill...Bill...be nice now! ....the alien thing came to my mind earlier as well.....sure am glad I didn't say anything. Cindy you sure left yourself wide open for that one. Come on Bill....that "stuff" surely isn't edible. Yucky
bbbbbbbbb
From: California | Registered: Mar 2003
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Not only edible, but some gourmets consider it to be a delicasy! Yummy with anchovies on the side!
From: Cedar Hill Washington | Registered: Aug 2002
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Celebrating 10 years of helping your gardens grow!
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....the alien thing came to my mind earlier as well.....sure am glad I didn't say anything. ![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
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