Question: How can I figure out whether my wheat’s at risk to Fusarium head blight?

 

Answer: An online tool is available to help growers assess their risk for Fusarium head blight. You can find the tool at www.wheatscab.psu.edu. It was developed by Pennsylvania State University in cooperation with Ohio State University, Kansas State University, Purdue University, North Dakota State University, and South Dakota State University. Information on the site notes that, "The tool helps growers predict the risk of a major epidemic (greater than 10% field severity) in your area based on weather conditions, temperature and moisture." While it’s not 100 percent accurate, it’s a very good resource. If you determine your wheat crop is at risk of developing the disease, consider proactively using a fungicide. You might consider Prosaro, from Bayer CropScience, or Caramba, from BASF. Both of these products offer good suppression of scab if applied proactively using the right timing, fungicide rate and right nozzle technology. One thing I always tell growers is to use nozzles that spray both forward and backward, which helps ensure good coverage.  Adequate water volumes are also important for good coverage. I recommend that you use about 15 gallons of water for your Fusarium fungicide.