Which practice can prevent the increase of pathogens in corn?

Managing corn residues is a crucial practice for preventing the increase of pathogens in corn. Residues from previous crops can harbor various pathogens, including fungi and bacteria, which may survive in the debris and pose a risk to future crops. By properly managing these residues through practices such as tillage, crop rotation, or even utilizing cover crops, the survival and proliferation of these pathogens can be reduced.

Additionally, effectively incorporating or decomposing these residues can encourage beneficial soil organisms that outcompete or inhibit pathogens, further mitigating disease pressure. This approach not only helps in controlling pathogens but also enhances the overall health of the soil and can improve crop yields in the long term.

In contrast, practices like frequent pesticide application may manage immediate pest threats but do not address the underlying issue of pathogen survival in residues. Building soil acidity may impact nutrient availability and plant health but does not directly alter the pathogen load from previously infected crops. Planting late in the season can expose crops to different environmental conditions that may affect disease dynamics, but it typically does not provide the preventive management of residues that is essential for pathogen control.