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Maize chlorotic dwarf  (maize chlorotic dwarf virus, or MCDV) has variable symptoms on sweet corn, including reddening or yellowing of leaves, twisting and tearing of foliage, and stunting / shortening of internodes on older plants. Faint yellow stripes (veinbanding) may be seen in leaves during the whorl stage. The pathogen can overwinter in several grasses, of which Johnsongrass is the major host. Several species of leafhopper transmit the virus from overwintering hosts to sweet corn.

Maize chlorotic dwarf symptoms

(Photo: Gary A. Payne, North Carolina State University, Bugwood.org)

Management:

• Resistant varieties (primary choice) and management of Johnsongrass.

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