Fusarium head blight (scab) risk has increased significantly for susceptible and moderately susceptible varieties across most areas of North Dakota. Risk is also elevated for moderately resistant varieties for areas in northwest, north central, and southeast North Dakota. The significant jump in risk can be attributed to higher humidity levels observed last week, in addition to longer dew periods and rain across the state. The forecast indicates several rain chances this week that will likely keep risk elevated for much of the state. There appears to be three distinct planting dates of small grains in the state: early (already flowered), middle (likely flowering this week), and late (flowering in the next 10-14 days). Right now, it looks like the greatest scab risk in the state for this season will occur this week and last into early next week.

--Andrew Friskop, Associate Professor and Cereal Extension Pathologist, North Dakota State University