INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT OF FUSARIUM HEAD BLIGHT IN SOFT RED WINTER WHEAT

Abstract

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused by Fusarium graminearum, is a destructive disease of the soft red winter wheat grown in the Mid-Atlantic region. Management of FHB focuses primarily on foliar fungicides or cultivar resistance. The purpose of this research was to examine how type II resistance (resistance to spread of the pathogen) is affected by multiple infections along the spike. The combination of type II resistance and fungicide as a way to manage FHB was evaluated in both the greenhouse and field settings. Finally, the role of increased foliage density in an integrated pest management program that included fungicide and cultivar resistance was also evaluated. Multiple infections occurring along a single wheat spike can overwhelm the type II resistance present in some cultivars. The combination of type II resistance and fungicide was the best management practice for FHB than either alone. Foliage density did not improve FHB disease ratings.