DISEASE UPDATE: AUGUST 2018

ASCOCHYTA IN LENTILS AND CHICKPEAS

Even though conditions have been dry and crop growth delayed, we’re asking growers to monitor Hurricane Lentil crops keeping a close eye out for ascochyta.

Levels of the disease have been present in volunteer plants (in wheat crops) for a couple of months. As the disease can effect quality, ensure pods are protected from the disease. It can be spread easily by being splashed up onto susceptible pods and cause downgrades.

Chickpea crops will also need protection from asccochyta. The disease spreads with even minimal amounts of rainfall and can cause significant losses in yield and quality. Keep your eyes open and ask our team for spray recommendations if needed.

SEPTORIA TRITICI IN WHEAT

On our travels around the area we have been noticing the majority of Mace & Scepter wheat crops showing signs of Septoria Tritici, seen at low levels on the lower leaves.

Crops which were early sown and wheat-on-wheat crops are at the highest risk. As this disease is spread by rain splash, the concern for damage to the crop is high if upper leaves aren’t protected. With good spring rainfall, these crops will be at high risk.

The disease will be waiting in the lower canopy, then with rain will rapidly move up onto yield contributing leaves. Ensure high risk crops receive a protective fungicide. The majority of protective fungicides for Septoria will also protect crop from rusts. Give us a call if you need advice or to come look if you’re unsure.