Southeast and Muscatine Island Research and Demonstration Farms

Sorghum Silage as an Alternative to Corn Silage in High Pest Pressure Areas

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Abstract

Tar spot (Phyllachora maydis), a fungal disease in corn, has been positively identified in every county in Iowa. Tar spot could be devastating for corn silage producers, as it is an aggressive disease that spreads from a minor infection to the entire field within a few weeks. This disease can significantly impact corn silage production by causing early dry down, reduced yield, and lower sugar content, all of which can negatively affect the quality and fermentation of the silage. Low moisture and sugar can lead to poor fermentation. Managing the disease is important to ensure a good silage crop, leaving farmers reliant on fungicides. We evaluated sorghum forage as an alternative to corn silage in areas affected by tar spot, as sorghum does not develop the disease. Evaluation was made by examining the nutritive value, yield, and management (proactively spraying, reactively spraying, or no spraying) between corn silage and sorghum silage.

How to Cite:

Gruss, S., Harle, C. & Schneider, C., (2026) “Sorghum Silage as an Alternative to Corn Silage in High Pest Pressure Areas”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports 2025(1), 35-36.