Many wheat fields will begin going through early anthesis (flowering; Feekes growth stage 10.51) this week in Kentucky. Although rain occurred in some areas of Kentucky over the last few days, the chances for precipitation over the next few days are relatively low. Wheat continues to be susceptible to infection by the FHB pathogen beyond early anthesis, so it is important to consider making a fungicide application at Feekes 10.51 to provide protection during this critical time. The wheat fungicide efficacy guide on the Crop Protection Network (www.cropprotectionnetwork.com) provides information about which fungicide products provide the greatest efficacy against FHB and other important diseases.

--Dr. Carl A. Bradley, Professor and Extension Specialist, University of Kentucky