[Fhb-update_ma] FHB Update from MD, 05/20/11

[FHB Updates - Mid Atlantic SWW Region]

As of May 20, most wheat in Maryland should have flowered. There will be some fields in the northern part of the state, especially later planted ones, that will come into flower shortly. The risk level is currently high. Although we may see a drop in the risk this weekend as the rains depart, the humidity will be high, temperatures will be very favorable for the fungus, and scattered t-storms will be possible. The remaining wheat fields coming into flower should be considered for fungicide application. I am told that supplies of Prosaro and possibly Caramba are now very limited in our region. Some unsold material from the south is being shipped north. A substitute for the primary recommended products is Proline, and in Maryland there is a FIFRA Section 2ee product bulletin that allows the tank-mixing of Proline at 3 fl oz/A with Folicur at 3 fl oz/A for scab management. This tank mix produces the same blend of active ingredients found in Prosaro. In our region, Folicur alone 
 or other tebuconazole products should only be considered as a last resort. It has generally performed less consistently and on average has reduced vomitoxin in infected grain by only 20%.

 --Arv Grybauskas, Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Maryland

 For more details, go to the FHB Risk Assessment Tool at http://www.wheatscab.psu.edu/riskTool_2011.html