Disease in Winter barley, April 2019

Keeping lower leaves green and retaining tillers is the main function of T1 sprays in winter barley as this drives final yield potential.  There is some disease present in crops, although it isn’t a desperate season as yet. Fungicides work best protectantly, especially for rhynchosporium, and so fungicides and rates should reflect the ‘on paper’ risks and what you actually see walking the crop.  Basic varietal weaknesses allow some forward planning, as do weather patterns, and you will also know whether you are usually a prime mildew site or not.  If you didn’t apply a T0 then the crop might need a little more action now compared with those that have had some pre-treatment.  But checking for the efficacy of a T0 treatment by walking the crop is crucial.