Wheat outlook will vary from region to region and wheat is expected to have a great amount of head scab this year across Kansas.

According to Doug Shoup, K-State southeast area agronomist, he has seen a variety in wheat conditions this year. However, producers this year need to be aware of head scab and other diseases facing wheat.

“This is the third year in a row we are dealing with head scab,” Shoup said.

In the southeast region, areas east of the Flint Hills have seen significant water/flood damage and areas further north toward Wellington and Winfield have suffered drought damage, head scab, and freeze damage. Areas around Wichita and north look better.

Producers need to be aware of the seed variety used and what that variety provides in a disease resistance package. Four varieties that have done well in the SEARC in Parsons and would work well for the southeast region are Fuller a K-State variety, Art an AgriPro variety, Santa Fe a Westbred variety and Endurance an Oklahoma State University variety.

Shoup stated, early planted wheat will suffer the most from head scab and water damage. Producers will see white to brown heads if plant is effected.

When determining if head scab has affected your field, lightly sperate the head from the stem and look for a green to brown color. Another way to determine if head scab is a problem is by opening up the bloom or looking at the berry. Head scab will leave a chalky to pink color inside the bloom.

If the weather continues to keep raining, then the later planted wheat will have an increase for leaf rust and head scab.

“Producers need to be prepared for dockage at elevators since head scab is a big concern this year,” Shoup said.

If producers plan to keep seed for next year, keep only the best quality seed with a 56 pound or better test weight.

If keeping seed for next year and head scab was a problem fungicide treatments need to be applied and there are several fungicides seedling treatments available.

For questions on what fungicides work the best in your area contact your local Extension agent.

Shoup recommended looking for seed early next year as seed supply could be limited.