PRINCETON, Ky. (Nov. 7, 2025) — The University of Kentucky Research and Education Center aims to optimize drone-based spray systems to improve access to effective management of foliar diseases in Kentucky cornfields.
This multi-departmental effort of Plant Pathology and Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at the UK Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment has completed year two of its study, supported by the Kentucky Corn Growers Association, and plans to share the results with farmers through a workshop in late February.
According to plant pathology specialist and principal investigator Kiersten Wise, Ph.D., their previous research found that drones are a viable fungicide application option for farmers, especially in smaller fields that cannot be accessed by manned aircraft due to trees or other obstacles. If left untreated, corn foliar diseases can cost Kentucky corn growers nearly $15 per acre…