Flowering continues in wheat this week across the northern half of the state of Ohio. This is the growth stage as which the crop is most susceptible to infection by Fusarium graminearum, the fungus that cases Fusarium head blight (FHB), also known as head scab. Consequently, questions are being asked about applying a fungicide to control FHB and minimize grain contamination with mycotoxins. However, according to the FHB forecasting system, the risk for head scab development has been low across the state over the past week. This is likely due, at least in part, to the cool, relatively dry conditions we have experienced in most area. The extended forecast suggests that dry (rain-free) conditions will persist over the next week or so. Remember, warm and consistently wet or humid conditions are required for FHB to develop. So, do continue to monitor the weather and use the scab forecasting system to determine if the risk for scab is increasing at the crop flowers in northern, late-plante d fields.

--Pierce Anderson Paul, Extension Plant Pathologist, The Ohio State University