Foliar Disease Management
in Small Grains

Introduction

Control of foliar diseases of small grains begins with the selection of well-adapted, disease resistant cultivars (wheat, barley cultivars and their disease reactions). Chemical control of foliar diseases generally has been found to be non-economical unless a high yield potential may be realized. Maximum economic yield (MEY) management practices, especially high nitrogen fertility and narrow rows, increase both the yield and disease potential in a small grain crop. Use of Baytan seed treatment and/or foliar-applied fungicides under high yield management may be required to control foliar diseases and protect the higher yield potential of the crop. The use of Baytan seed treatment should be based on: a) use of high-yield management practices, especially higher nitrogen fertility levels, and b) powdery mildew susceptibility of wheat cultivar( S through MS reactions). Cultivars rated MR to MS may not respond dramatically to Baytan depending on seasonal conditions.The decision to protect yields with fungicides should be made when the expected yield is roughly greater than 70 bu/A (the cut-off depends on the cost of production and on potential market price) and when conditions are forecast to be favorable for continued disease development and stage of crop growth. Conditions for powdery mildew are characterized by temperatures between 60 and 75 F and periods of high relative humidity. Leaf rust develops most rapidly when temperatures are between 60 and 85 F and free moisture from showers or dew can be found on leaves from early evening until late morning hours. Septoria leaf and glume blotch is favored by wind blown rain, high relative humidity, and temperatures between 68 and 82 F. The disease characteristically moves upward from infected lower leaves in the plant canopy. Use disease threshold information in the "Remarks" section of Foliarly- applied fungicides for disease control in small grains as a guide to knowing when and if to spray.

complete table of foliarly applied fungicides for disease control in small grains

Foliar Disease Management in Small Grains

Introduction

Foliar Disease Management
in Small Grains