EPPO Global Database

• EPPO Code: ZPOLSC
• Preferred name: pollen scorch

Leaf spot symptoms of unclear origin sometimes observed on cereals. Although there is little evidence to suggest that pollen on the leaf surface is a direct cause of these symptoms,
extensive leaf scorch has been found associated with pollen on the leaf surface, particularly following wet periods when pollen sticks to the leaves. It is hypothesized that saprophytic fungi, bacteria and yeasts might use pollen as an additional food source to grow rapidly on the leaf surface, enhancing foliar diseases or inducing plant defense mechanisms (e.g. localized necrosis).