[2] Stenocarpella maydis can significantly reduce yield or grain quality (see – Symptoms and Signs) as there is a decrease on kernel size, and lower test weight.

Stenocarpella rot has the potential to affect distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) composition, but not ethanol yield on an equivalent weight basis.

In advanced stages of disease, this can result in a light-weight mummified ears attributed to the release of extracellular hydrolytic activities of acid protease, xylanases, and cellulases.

[6] During late season, this ascomycete on the plant can be recognized by the production of small raised, black fungal reproductive structures (pycnidia) on infected kernels, cob, husks, or stalks giving it an irregular feeling when touched.

When infection happens several weeks after flowering, ears may be asymptomatic, with a possible brown discoloration, or seldom show mycelium between kernels.

[2][4] Diplodia rot is most severe for mono cropping systems, or when wet weather occurs shortly after silking, particularly for susceptible corn varieties with upright ears and tight husks.

It is recommended to apply fungicides when foliar disease is evident at high levels to help minimize stalk damage during grain fill.

[18] Some experimental findings include: While not as commonly used as the previously described management strategies, several studies show promising results with a biocontrol approach.

Examples follow: S. maydis is capable of producing mycotoxins, but no case has been reported regarding Diplodia rot in the United States and Canada.

A study by Wicklow et al showed promising antifungal activity against Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium verticillioides[23]