Minnesota Growers Monitor Crops as Disease Risks Continue Rising Statewide
Warm and humid conditions are increasing disease concerns in Minnesota’s -and surrounding states - small grain fields. Current weather patterns are creating favorable conditions for diseases such as Fusarium head blight (FHB), with risk levels rising from low and moderate to moderate and high depending on crop variety resistance.
High dew points are expected to continue across much of the state, bringing warm days and higher nighttime temperatures. These conditions can support disease development, making regular field scouting, and timely crop management decisions important for growers.
FHB risk updates are based on information from both the national FHB forecasting model and the NDSU FHB risk model. The national model may show higher risk areas because it uses weather forecasts and information from National Weather Service stations. The NDSU model uses local weather data from NDAWN and MAWN stations, providing more detailed field-level risk information. Uneven rainfall patterns across the state make local weather data especially useful for growers.
Oat producers who have not applied fungicides for crown rust control at the flag leaf stage are encouraged to consider a fungicide application at the fully headed stage. Fields planted after corn harvested for grain may benefit from premium fungicides that also help reduce FHB risk.
Spring barley growers should apply fungicides at the fully headed stage to help manage Fusarium head blight and net blotch, especially in varieties that are more vulnerable to disease. Products such as Prosaro or similar treatments are recommended for effective protection.
For spring wheat, fungicide applications at the beginning of anthesis can help reduce FHB risk. Premium fungicides may offer additional protection in fields following corn or when using varieties with higher disease sensitivity.
Crop scouts are also reporting more cases of Bacterial Leaf Streak (BLS). The increase is expected due to current weather conditions and crop growth stages. Continued monitoring, proper scouting, and timely disease management remain important steps for protecting small grain yields and quality throughout the growing season.
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