Influence of meteorological factors on the development of leaf blight Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) in maize

Northern leaf blight (Exserohilum turcicum) is one of the most significant diseases affecting maize. The development of the pathogen is highly influenced by meteorological conditions - moderate temperatures (20 - 28°C), high relative humidity (>90%), heavy dew, and frequent rainfall, which are key factors that promote infection and sporulation. Genetic resistance in maize, particularly through Ht genes, represents a major component of integrated disease management strategies. The objective of this experiment was to determine the influence of meteorological factors during the months favorable for the development of northern leaf blight in maize. The study was conducted between 2019 and 2024, in the infectious field of the Maize Research Institute - Knezha. Over the two years, 94 maize hybrids from various maturity groups were evaluated for their resistance to the disease. Meteorological factors, especially relative humidity, were found to play a crucial role in the development and spread of Exserohilum turcicum in maize.