To differentiate sulfur deficiency from nitrogen deficiency in wheat, look for field patterns. Symptoms of yellowing limited to certain areas is more typical of sulfur deficiency. In addition, symptoms of sulfur deficiency are more conspicuous when soil temperatures are cold as in early spring.
No diseases were found during a survey of wheat fields in south central and southeast Nebraska this week, but growers are urged to continue scouting as recent rains may create conditions favorable to disease development.
With the predicted return to more normal temperatures, it's time to get into wheat fields and start scouting. Stripe rust has already been reported in southeastern Kansas and is expected to move northward. Included is a table of fungicide efficacy ratings for disease management in wheat.
Symptoms of bacterial diseases can be easily confused with those of fungal diseases in field crops. This article, from the Proceedings of the 2018 Nebraska Extension Crop Production Clinics, reviews some of the common mistakes made in the major field crops and reviews research on the impact of fungicide use after hail events in corn and soybean.
What factors contribute to diseases in wheat and what management steps can help deter wheat disease problems. Also addressed is how to use integrated pest management to reduce threats that could rob yields.
Figure 1. Stripe rust in a grower's winter wheat field in Kimball County in June 2015. Taking steps now before planting can help reduce disease impact for your 2018 crop. (Photo by Stephen Wegulo)
Before planting winter wheat this fall growers have an opportunity to address and manage several factors that could lead to reduced yields in 2018. Here are five steps to take.
Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) problems have been extensive throughout the western Great Plains this year, significantly reducing the yield potential of many fields. A critical key in managing this threat in the next crop is elimination of volunteer wheat. Tillage or chemical weed control should occur at least one month before planting to allow host plants time to dry up and cease being a host.
