Infections can be severe, particularly on light, dry, acid soils during cool springs. Damage Description Distinct grey to brown spots with dark margins appear at the base of stems at heading. The spots spread outwards and the centres darken. Dark fungus that can be rubbed off may be present in the centre of the lesion. Stem breakage, white heads and lodging can occur from this disease.
Sharp eyespot can kill tillers or entire plants.
Most often this disease reduces size and number of kernels and causes plants to lodge. It also increases the risk of head diseases, grain sprouting and weed growth. When disease levels are moderate, affected plants are supported by their healthy neighbors. In severe cases, large areas will lodge. Lodging is non-directional and, unlike crops lodged by wind, does not allow some recovery.