The disease can spread quickly if left unchecked
By Diego Flammini, Farms.com
Crop consultants in Kansas have discovered what they’re calling a heavy infestation of stripe rust in wheat fields across the southeastern part of the state. Plant pathologists believe farmers will have to be diligent in checking for stripe rust in fields containing wheat varieties that are most at risk.
The worst stripe rust lives and flourishes in damp, humid conditions and has been found near Altamont. Other moderate cases were found near Labette County. The recent rains, though the state needed the moisture, has helped the disease develop.
In a report with Kansas Wheat, Jordan Hildebrand said stripe rust survives in climates that are humid and cool. He noted that the disease grows at its fastest between 50 and 60°F. It has a hard time thriving when temperatures reach around 68°F at night or after consecutive days of temperatures in the mid-80s.
While fungicides are an option, but farmers sometimes tend to adopt the wait and see method. Especially now when drought may impact yields and quality.
Erick DeWolf, a plant pathologist from Kansas State University suggests that if farmers are going to spray, to start with the fields that are expected to have the highest yields.
He said fungicides could be a solution if stripe rust is found on the upper leaves before heading. Lower leaves with signs of stripe rust may not need to be sprayed but should be closely monitored as the disease can spread quickly.
Earlier in 2015, researchers from Texas suggested there could be a stripe rust epidemic.
Join the conversation and tell us if you’ve ever had to battle stripe rust. If so what did you do and how did you prevent the disease from coming back?
Stripe rust