Be Seed Smart

Increase seeding rates to promote a more uniform stand, reduced tillering and a shorter flowering period. This approach helps reduce the flowering period, which is the growth stage most at risk for infection. Uniform flowering helps improve foliar fungicide efficacy because most, if not all, of the crop will be at the key growth stage for foliar fungicide application.

Field location can be an important consideration as F. graminearum can move from one field to the next. If practical, avoid planting small grain cereals immediately adjacent to cereal or corn fields where elevated levels of F. graminearum are known or suspected to occur.

Continuous or short rotation of cereals or corn allow for a build-up of F. graminearum on infested fields. Leave at least two years between host crops (all cereals, corn). Avoid corn in rotation with cereals. Corn is also a host of F. graminearum; spores can easily spread from corn to cereal fields. Strategic rotation plans that utilize broad leaf crops (pulses, canola) can reduce pathogen build up.

Consider utilizing a seed treatment as an integrated pest management tool in known infection areas, when using susceptible varieties, or when growing conditions favor the development of the disease (irrigation). Carefully follow label directions. Consider professional application.

Now that most areas of Alberta have Fusarium, seed testing should be used as a tool to select the best seed to ensure a healthy uniform crop. Request a seed health report including disease screening to assist in selecting the best seed treatment to control seed borne disease beyond & including fusarium. Using disease free seed only slows the spread of the disease. Fusarium can spread by a spore in the wind, or by infected crop residue & feed/bedding, hence disease-free seed on its own is not a strong defense mechanism.