When conditions become unfavorable, the fungus overwinters in sclerotia inside the dead host plant tissue, or within the soil. The sclerotia can be dispersed through soil by rain and water irrigation. Moist, humid conditions, and high nitrogen fertilization are favorable conditions for the sclerotia, which germinate in wet areas of the leaf or sheath.
In times of adversity, the fungus retreats into dormant structures within dead host plant tissue or soil. Sclerotia can be dispersed through soil by rain and irrigation. Favorable conditions include moist, humid environments and high nitrogen levels, which trigger germination in wet areas of the leaf or sheath.