Managing Fusarium Head Blight Risks for Better Grain Quality

Best practices to reduce FHB risk and protect crop quality next season

As every farmer knows, planning for a new growing season begins long before planting starts. Every decision a grower makes can influence future crop health, yield, and market value.  

One major concern for cereal producers is Fusarium Head Blight, also known as FHB. This fungal disease affects important crops such as durum wheat, spring wheat, barley, oats, and corn. When not managed early, it can reduce grain quality and limit marketing opportunities. 

FHB damages kernels during development, causing lower yields and poor grades. It also leads to the production of mycotoxins, harmful substances created by infected kernels. These mycotoxins can impact livestock feed quality, reduce milling and baking performance in wheat, affect biofuel production, and lower the malting and brewing quality of barley. Because of these challenges, early planning and careful seed decisions are essential. 

One of the most effective ways to manage FHB is through crop rotation. The fungus can survive on old crop residue, especially cereal and corn stubble. Allowing enough time for this residue to break down before returning to cereal crops helps reduce disease pressure.  

It is best to rotate away from cereals for at least one year, and preferably two years, especially on fields that recently showed signs of FHB. Farmers who also grow corn should note that corn residue can carry the disease, making rotation planning even more important. 

Choosing crop varieties with strong resistance to FHB is another key step. Resistance levels vary among cereals: durum is the most susceptible, wheat is moderately susceptible, barley has better tolerance, and oats are usually the least affected. Selecting the most resistant option available for your area can greatly reduce the risk of infection. 

Finally, using high-quality, vigorous seed helps establish a strong and healthy crop stand. Good seeding rates support uniform plant growth, which is important for reducing stress and improving natural defenses against disease. 

By planning ahead with proper rotations, resistant varieties, and strong seed, growers can protect grain quality, maintain more marketing opportunities, and invest wisely in the coming season. 

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