2005 Year in Review

From the Fields

Source: Jim Morrison, Extension Educator, Crop Systems, Rockford Extension Center, University of Illinois, 417 Ware Avenue, Suite 102, Rockford, IL 61107, Phone 815/397-7714, Fax 815/397-8620, email: morrison@uiuc.edu

Seeding of winter wheat in northern Illinois will soon be here. Once the variety to plant has been selected, the decision to use a fungicide seed treatment needs to be made.

As discussed in the recent University of Illinois Pest Management & Crop Development Bulletin, use of a fungicide seed treatment (or in some cases an insecticide treatment) can be an important part of an overall disease and wheat management plan.

Some of the factors that must be considered when deciding to use a wheat seed treatment include seed cost, seed treatment cost, crop value, seed condition, seed-bed condition, date of planting, anticipated disease and insect pressure, intended crop use, and options for disposal of excess treated seed. As noted in the Bulletin, since many of these factors are difficult to predict before planting many producers looking for “insurance” either plant wheat at a higher seeding rate or use a seed treatment.

There are many seed treatments registered for use on wheat and each has strengths and weaknesses. This is one reason why premixed fungicide products are so common. An insecticide may be included or used alone to control insect pests.

Generally speaking, seed treatments will last only 10 to 14 days after planting. However, there are some products that can protect the seed for a longer period when applied at the highest labeled rate. Many times, long-lasting systemic products offer a good deal of protection, but they are also relatively expensive. Some products are available to only commercial seed treaters.

Further information on wheat seed treatments can be found in the August 12, 2005 issue of the University of Illinois Pest Management & Crop Development Bulletin and in the 2005 Illinois Agricultural Pest Management Handbook. To learn more about seed and seedling pests, consult the current Field Crop Scouting Manual (number X880d). Extension offices can help you get this information.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
September 2, 2005