Maize dwarf disease is a viral infection spread by the planthopper *Laodelphax striatellus*. Another significant viral disease affecting corn is maize dwarf mosaic, which causes mottled or chlorotic streaks on the leaves. Affected plants are typically stunted, with shortened stems and curled leaves. The veins of the leaves may show white, waxy stripes, while other parts of the leaf remain dark green, stiff, and thick. Infected plants often appear smaller and weaker compared to healthy ones.
Although the virus can infect corn throughout its growth cycle, it is most dangerous during the early stages—particularly before the 6-leaf stage. As the plant progresses past the 10-leaf stage, it becomes more resistant. Therefore, the earlier the infection, the more severe the damage tends to be. Maize dwarf mosaic is transmitted by aphids, while the dwarfism form is carried by migratory locusts. These pests overwinter in weeds found in fields and abandoned areas. Perennial weeds, as well as crops like wheat, serve as virus reservoirs. Weeds, aphids, and locusts all contribute to the spread of the disease when they move into cornfields. Weather conditions that influence the survival and reproduction of these pests also play a key role in the outbreak of viral diseases.
To manage these diseases, an integrated approach combining pest control and disease prevention is recommended. First, selecting resistant varieties based on local conditions is crucial. Second, removing weeds along field edges and ditches is essential to reduce virus sources. Third, proper agricultural practices such as using mulch films, improving soil fertility, and managing water and nutrients can help strengthen plant resistance. Insecticides should be applied to control aphids and locusts both on weeds and in the cornfield. Effective options include 10% imidacloprid wettable powder diluted 3000–5000 times, 25% buprofezin (buprofezin) WP at 1000–1500 times, 4.5% cypermethrin EC diluted 1500–2000 times, or 5% Ruijin special at 30–50 ml per hectare. Other choices include 20% isoprocarb EC at 150–200 ml per hectare, 48% chlorpyrifos (Lorsban) at 100–120 ml per hectare, or 50% Pifu Fog wettable powder at 6–8 grams per 50–60 liters of water. For newly infected plants, treatments like Ningnanmycin or phytopathogenic foliar sprays can be used early for better results.
Early spraying is critical—waiting until symptoms become visible (around the 9–10 leaf stage) is often too late. It's also important to note that maize dwarf mosaic can be seed-borne, so strict seed management is necessary. Seeds should be produced in virus-free areas to minimize the risk of contamination and transmission. This helps ensure healthier crops and reduces the chances of future outbreaks.
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