Managing wheat diseases - Nebraska survey results

By Scout Nelson

Wheat disease surveys conducted across various regions of Nebraska provide valuable insights into disease prevalence and management strategies for growers. The surveys conducted recently covered the southeast, south-central, southwest, and Panhandle regions of the state. Disease levels were generally low, with some fields exhibiting minimal or no disease presence.

There has been a significant increase in the occurrence of stripe rust, particularly in 17 counties in the southern part of the state. Leaf rust, on the other hand, has not been reported as of May 17.

Isolated cases of severe wheat streak mosaic virus disease complex were observed in the southeast, south-central, and southwest regions. These cases were often associated with the presence of volunteer wheat in adjacent fields left uncontrolled before planting.

Management recommendations vary based on the region and disease prevalence. In regions where wheat is heading, applying a fungicide at early flowering is recommended to suppress Fusarium head blight (FHB) and control stripe rust and other foliar fungal diseases.

Fungicides such as Prosaro Pro, Miravis Ace, Sphaerex, Caramba, Prosaro, and Proline have shown efficacy in suppressing FHB and controlling foliar fungal diseases.

In the Panhandle region, regular scouting for stripe rust and other foliar fungal diseases is advised. If stripe rust is detected, particularly after heading, applying a fungicide at early flowering can help suppress FHB and control stripe rust and other foliar fungal diseases.

Effective management of the wheat streak mosaic virus disease complex involves controlling volunteer wheat, especially after pre-harvest hailstorms, before fall planting. Ensuring complete eradication of volunteer wheat at least two weeks before planting is crucial.

Controlling grasses before fall planting and avoiding planting next to late-maturing cereal crops such as corn can help mitigate the spread of the disease complex.

Growers are encouraged to contribute to the 2024 rust tracking map to assist Nebraska Extension in monitoring the movement of stripe and leaf rust across the state. To complete the survey, Click Here.

Photo Credit -gettyimages-ygrek