Corn stunt spiroplasma has been confirmed in 26 counties in Kansas. Recent scouting efforts across Kansas have confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. High levels of disease were found in late-planted corn, leading to potential yield reduction. In this article, learn more about this new disease, its spread, and the best method for submitting samples for lab testing.
As the 2025 corn season begins, be on the lookout for Corn Stunt Spiroplasma and its vector, the corn leafhopper. Early detection is key to managing this disease and minimizing yield loss. A new monitoring program will track leafhopper populations in key counties.