Nathan Kleczewski, Extension Specialist – Plant Pathology; nkleczew@udel.edu
Thus far the cool, dry, windy weather has not been favorable to early development of fungal diseases in small grains. Wheat ranges from Feekes 4-6 throughout the state, and barley has jumped in growth substantially over the past week. The clinic has been fairly quiet as well, with small grains samples showing symptoms of abiotic disorders.
Each year our national small grains disease working group (NCERA-184) compiles fungicide efficacy data for major fungal diseases. Trials include small plot, strip plot, and on farm trials and ratings are based on several years of data. Therefore you will see some products do not have ratings for a particular disease. This is because the group does not have sufficient data to provide confidant ratings. Remember that fungicides are most effective if applied before significant levels of disease are present. We will begin to generate efficacy data on several of these products under Mid-Atlantic growing conditions this season. Click on the table below for a larger version.
