The growth stages for small grains in North Dakota is highly variable ranging from early-tillering to flowering stages. The models indicate FHB risk is low for susceptible varieties, and high for very susceptible varieties (uncommon for hard red spring wheat varieties). The state continues to receive sporadic thunderstorms, and the next seven days have high chances of prolonged nighttime/morning dews. Spring wheat and spring barley that will be heading and flowering in the next 7 to 10 days will likely see an increase in FHB risk given these weather conditions. Continue to monitor growth stages in small grain fields and make timely applications in spring wheat (early-flowering and up to 7 days later) and spring barley (full-head and up to 7 days later).

--Andrew Friskop, Associate Professor and Cereal Extension Pathologist, North Dakota State University