Slight scab risk alert for Wilkes, Lincoln, Rutherford, Stanly, Randolph, Burke, Rowan, Union

Although head scab risk is low over almost the entire state, scab risk is  now slightly elevated for wheat currently flowering in the North Carolina
Piedmont. This includes Wilkes, Lincoln, Rutherford, Stanly, Randolph, Burke, Rowan, and Union counties. Growers in these counties may wish to
consider applying a fungicide specifically for head scab reduction, in the next 10 days, if:

1) you have a variety rated S or MS to head scab and
2) as of today, the wheat growth stage is between start of heading, and full flower. (If a spray at the best timing of mid-flower is not possible,
research shows that applications up to 5 to 6 days later can still be beneficial for head scab reduction.)

Variety ratings are here:
http://www.smallgrains.ncsu.edu/_Misc/_VarietySelection.pdf

The most effective fungicides against head scab are Prosaro, Caramba, and Proline. Do not apply a strobilurin or a strobilurin-triazole mix. Best
application techniques are here:
http://www.scabsmart.org/best%20application.html

For more details, go to the FHB Risk assessment tool at
http://www.wheatscab.psu.edu

Courtesy

Randy Weisz – Small Grains Specialist NCSU
Christina Cowger – Plant Pathologist USDA-ARS & NCSU