The growing season is unpredictable and maintaining crop health throughout is vital. At-Plant fungicides play a crucial role in protecting corn plants from diseases and promoting healthy growth.

At this point, the corn crop has been planted and At-Plant applications have been made. As that crop grows, these At-Plant fungicides offer several key benefits to help the plant reach its full yield potential.  

1 . Ongoing disease control

Utilizing an At-Plant fungicide is a strategic approach for comprehensive disease management throughout the growing season. With systemic activity, these fungicides provide continuous protection during early and mid- season growth stages, protecting plant health and vigor, while minimizing the impact of disease outbreaks. This proactive strategy is especially crucial for preserving yield potential and building a healthier plant that can stand up to a variety of foliar diseases, like tar spot, during the long growing season.

Xyway^® brand fungicides from FMC are At-Plant solutions that have revolutionized defense against foliar diseases. By applying Xyway brand fungicides at planting, corn growers ensure season-long foliar disease protection from the start, optimizing their crop’s yield potential.

2 . Crop advantages beyond disease protection

As the season unfolds, growers may start to observe additional plant physiological benefits in their plants beyond disease control. For example, Xyway brand fungicides not only protect against foliar diseases but also enhance plant physiology, promoting robust, high-yielding corn crops. Growers who applied Xyway brand fungicides notice enhancements in root growth, nutrient uptake, water movement and overall physiological development, resulting in healthier and stronger plants that can better withstand the pressures of the growing season.

Photo submitted by FMC.

Enhanced Root Growth and Development

Robust root growth and development are fundamental for the overall health and productivity of corn crops. FMC has observed measurable improvement of root growth and development — 51% longer roots, 32% greater root surface, 80% greater root forks and 15% more root volume — in corn plants applied with Xyway brand fungicides. These enhancements collectively contribute to the establishment of a more resilient and vigorous root system. A well-developed root system also ensures the plant can efficiently access water and other essential nutrients from the soil, a critical advantage during drought conditions like those observed over the past few seasons.

Optimized Nutrient Uptake

A range of essential nutrients are required for various physiological processes of a corn plant, including photosynthesis, growth and reproduction. When nutrients are readily available and efficiently taken up by the plant, it can achieve its maximum yield potential. A nutrient-deficient plant is more susceptible to stress, which can negatively impact their growth, yield and overall health. A 2022 University of Wisconsin study found a 7.5% increase in a corn plant’s nutrient tissue levels when using Xyway brand fungicides compared to untreated acres. Adequate nutrient levels can help a crop better withstand environmental stresses such as drought, heat, cold and disease.

Photo submitted by FMC.

Improved Water Movement

Enhanced water movement within a plant ensures it receives an adequate and consistent supply of water, optimizing their hydration levels to support healthy growth. It also improves drought tolerance by mitigating water-related stresses. For example, during dry periods, efficient water movement allows a plant to access water stored in deeper soil layers and reduce the risk of water stress. A 2021 University of Tennessee study found Xyway brand fungicides can reduce the negative effects of water-deficit stress on plant growth and improve ease of water movement, uptake and use efficiency in a corn plant.

To learn more about At-Plant fungicides, like Xyway brand fungicides, visit ag.fmc.com or talk with your local FMC retailer.