12 May 2005

ALERT on three issues:

1. Wheat Head Scab: According to disease forecast models, central Kansas is at high risk for the development of head scab of wheat in minimum tillage fields where the plants will be flowering over the next two weeks and the wheat was planted into corn stubble. Weather during the seven days preceding flowering is a good predictor of scab development; in central Kansas, the weather has been very favorable. In high risk fields (wheat into corn stubble in minimum tillage), a fungicide application should be made prior to flowering to prevent scab.

2. Stripe Rust: Yield potential in the Kansas wheat crop was projected to be high as recently as 10 days ago. Since that time, stripe rust has increased dramatically in susceptible varieties and is being reported at low severities in varieties that were resistant in previous years. Add last week’s freeze damage and the current prospects are questionable. Fungicides can only be applied up to flowering. A producer’s last chance for application is essentially now.

3. Fungicide availability: I have received reports from some counties indicating that certain fungicides are in short supply. Although some specific products are limited, fungicides are still available in most areas.