Description:

• Warm, humid conditions are favourable for the occurrence of downy mildew.

Damage Symptoms:

• Chlorotic or yellowish streaks are visible on leaves, particularly younger ones.
• White to greyish downy growth appears on the underside of the leaves.
• Poor ear development and stunted growth are observed in severely infected plants.
• In advanced stages, the plant fails to develop viable ears, leading to complete yield loss.

Preventive Measures:

• Grow resistant maize varieties.
• Maintain proper soil drainage.

Control Measures:

• Foliar spray with Mancozeb and Metalaxyl.