By Scout Nelson
Wheat disease surveys conducted on May 22 in Saline and Jefferson Counties of southeast Nebraska revealed early signs of several wheat diseases. While the fields looked lush and healthy, traces of low levels of disease were found.
The most common disease detected was the wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) complex. Other diseases observed included Fusarium head blight (FHB), Septoria tritici blotch, and stripe rust.
Stripe rust, although present, appears at low and manageable levels this season. According to experts, “This year, the risk for damaging levels of stripe rust appears to be low.”
Once symptoms of WSMV are visible, it is too late for control. Prevention for future crops includes controlling volunteer wheat, especially after pre-harvest hail. It's also vital to eliminate volunteer wheat in summer crops like millet and sunflower, as well as grassy weeds.
These plants must be completely dead at least 14 days before planting winter wheat. Other key strategies include planting resistant wheat varieties, avoiding early planting, and not planting wheat near late-maturing crops like corn or millet that host viruses or wheat curl mites.
FHB can be managed by applying fungicides at early flowering and within six days after. While the current risk for FHB is low in Nebraska, recent rainfall may raise localized risks.
For Septoria tritici blotch and stripe rust, applying fungicides to protect the flag leaf is advised. Fungicides used for FHB also help control these diseases.
As the wheat crop matures, Nebraska Extension will continue tracking disease spread. Producers and observers can assist by contributing to the 2025 rust tracking map through a brief online survey.
Monitoring and early management are key to keeping Nebraska wheat healthy this season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Wheat, Weather