Stripe rust has been reported in wheat crops across Victoria. These reports are earlier than recent years. With this early occurrence of stripe rust proactive management will be required in varieties without adequate resistance.
Wheat crops across the state should be monitored closely for rust with a view to timely fungicide application if warranted. Given the occurrence of a new strain of stripe rust in Victoria it is important to consult a 2020 cereal disease guide to check variety ratings to this strain. Notes that some wheat and durum cultivars are now more susceptible to this new strain of stripe rust. Stripe rust identification, management, and epidemiology can be found in ‘Identification & Management of Field Crop Diseases in Victoria’.
Growers and advisors are encouraged to adopt a three-step approach to assess stripe rust infection
- Review variety ratings using a current cereal disease guide. To ensure the ratings are current do not use one from previous years. The current Victorian guide can be found here.
- Monitor crops closely
- Use the StripeRustWM app to support decision making. The app can be downloaded from the Apple and Google Play stores. A user guide is also attached for those unfamiliar with the app.
Further information
- Identification & Management of Field Crop Diseases in Victoria – Stripe Rust of Wheat
- StripeRustWM app
- 2020 Victorian Cereal Disease Guide
If you have further questions, please contact [email protected]
