We are committed to addressing emerging disease challenges relevant to Illinois farmers and remain open to expanding our research to additional pathosystems of regional importance. As new threats arise or stakeholder needs evolve, we are prepared to design and implement trials beyond our current focal diseases, leveraging our expertise in field experimentation, disease quantification, and precision application technologies.
Red Crown Rot of Soybeans
We conduct RCR field trials in both inoculated experimental plots and commercial farmer fields. Inoculated plots allow us to standardize disease pressure and rigorously compare treatments, while on-farm trials validate performance under real production conditions. This approach ensures our recommendations are both scientifically sound and field ready. More information here.
Foliar Diseases of Corn: Tar Spot, Southern Rust, NCLB.
We conduct foliar disease trials in corn with a strong focus on northern Illinois, where disease pressure is consistently higher. These environments allow us to rigorously evaluate hybrid response, fungicide performance, biological products, and other strategies. Findings are then validated to support recommendations for growers across the region.
Diseases of Wheat: FHB and Foliar Diseases
We conduct wheat disease trials with a primary focus on Fusarium head blight (FHB) and key foliar diseases. Our research includes trials in southern Illinois, where FHB pressure is often significant, as well as controlled studies on campus to evaluate fungicide timing, product performance, and varietal response.
Drone-Based Fungicide Application and Spray Optimization
We conduct applied research on drone-based fungicide applications in corn and wheat, evaluating how operational parameters such as flight speed, altitude, droplet size, and spray volume influence coverage and disease control.