The summer growing season has producers on watch for developing disease pressure for this year's crop.

Commercial Farms Educator at the University of Illinois Extension, Reagan Tibbs, indicates tar spot is becoming more common in the central US. He indicates chemical companies are very focused on the growing concern of tar spot. 

Northern corn leaf blight and grey leaf spot are two common diseases that not only spread quickly, but the recent heat and humidity make the conditions ripe for their development.

While not in central Illinois, tassel wrapping is becoming an issue. Tibbs has seen reports from Iowa State University and Purdue University on the issue.

Tibbs indicates drone usage is becoming very popular for scouting; however, he reminds, nothing beats a producer getting into that field on foot and getting a first-hand look at that crop.