T1 fungicides are being applied to some forward wheat crops in the south, but delays caused by unsettled weather elsewhere mean many growers are still trying to get T0 sprays on, according to FWi's agronomists.
On the Wiltshire/ Dorset border, Dan Dines said the first T1 sprays had gone on, and the majority of wheat crops were ready to receive one.
"Septoria is the main disease threat in wheat. Both yellow and brown rust are notable by their absence thus far. Eyespot is present in some fields, and mildew can be found in a small number of crops.
"Fungicide treatments should be based on diseases present/ disease risk, avoid routinely treating last year's problems!"
Agrovista's Swaran Bachoo said recent cold weather had slowed crop growth and while a few wheat crops were at growth stage 32, most were at GS 31. "Luckily we had opportunity to apply all the planned T0 fungicides and the first split of the pgr so these wheats now have adequate protection until T1 fungicides are applied.
"Do not be in a hurry to apply the T1 fungicide before emergence of leaf 3 or the gap between the T1 and T2 will be two wide."
Lincolnshire-based Ruth East said crop growth had also been slowed due to cold weather, but there was plenty of disease about that would need treating.
"Septoria tritici is abundant on the lower leaves of susceptible varieties a well timed, robust T1 will be needed to control it, because if temperatures increase the disease will take off."
But further north in Northumberland, frustration was growing as showery weather continued to disrupt planned spraying programmes. Robert Sullivan said the majority of early-drilled first wheats had received their T0, but others were still to be sprayed.
"If the weather continues in its current vein the T0 will become T1 before too much longer. Disease levels in general are low in these crops, with septoria being really the only disease apparent, although there are signs of eyespot on some crops."
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by Paul Spackman (About this Author)
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