By Scout Nelson
As of June 30, small grains across Minnesota are beginning to show early signs of disease and insect pressure. Scouts report that tans pot is present, though still at low levels. Ongoing weather fronts are delivering scattered showers across much of the state, except for the northern halves of Kittson and Roseau counties, which remain dry and are showing signs of moisture stress in wheat fields.
These scattered rains are increasing the risk of fungal diseases like Fusarium head blight (FHB). However, growers should be cautious, as both the NDAWN forecasting system and national models might overestimate disease risk if rain has not fallen in their specific areas. According to experts, “both the NDAWN disease forecasting and the national risk model might be overestimating the risk for some of your fields.”
Oats and barley approaching Feekes 10.5 (fully headed) should be treated with fungicides labeled for FHB suppression. The same goes for wheat reaching Feekes 10.51 (beginning anthesis). Crops with an FHB rating over 6 should be sprayed with premium fungicides.
Insect activity is also a concern. Aphids are widespread across Minnesota, especially in the heart valley, where some fields may be near economic thresholds. Additionally, cereal leaf beetle (CLB) larvae are found in the same area. The threshold for CLB is one larva per flag leaf once the crop reaches the boot stage.
Farmers are encouraged to closely monitor their fields and time fungicide and insecticide applications carefully based on crop stage and pest levels. Continuous scouting will help manage the health of small grain crops as the season progresses.
The coming weeks will be critical in managing both disease and insect pressure to ensure healthy small grain production across Minnesota.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-giovanni1232
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Wheat