By Scout Nelson
University of Nebraska–Lincoln specialists recently conducted wheat disease surveys across several counties in southeast Nebraska to evaluate crop health as the growing season progresses. The surveys took place from June 8 to June 11, 2026, in Lancaster, Gage, Saline, Jefferson, and Saunders counties.
The surveys were conducted around the same time as the first wheat field day of 2026, held on June 10 in Jefferson County. The event brought together wheat growers, Nebraska Wheat Board representatives, industry partners, Extension faculty, students, and crop experts. Participants reviewed wheat varieties and breeding lines developed by public institutions and private companies, with discussions focused on agronomic performance and disease resistance.
Survey results showed that leaf rust was the most common disease found in wheat fields that had not yet reached full maturity. The disease was observed in several locations and remained the primary concern among surveyed fields. Leaf rust can reduce plant health and grain production when infection levels become severe.
Researchers also identified Fusarium head blight at moderate levels in a Jefferson County wheat field. This disease affects wheat heads and can reduce grain quality and yield. Monitoring for Fusarium head blight remains important, especially during favorable weather conditions.
Another issue observed during the surveys was the presence of sooty mold on approximately 2% of wheat heads in both a grower’s field and a state variety trial in Jefferson County. Investigations showed that these affected heads detached easily because they had been damaged by wheat stem maggots. After the plant tissue died, saprophytic fungi developed on the damaged areas, creating the black mold appearance.
Crop development stages varied across the survey area. Some fields were approaching harvest, while later-maturing varieties remained in the hard dough stage. These differences helped researchers evaluate disease levels under varying crop conditions.
Information on wheat stem maggot and management recommendations is available in this Kansas State University resource.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-milos-cirkovic
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Wheat