Fusarium Management

Fusarium Head Blight

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a fungal disease of cereal crops that affects kernel development. The most important cause of FHB is the fungus Fusarium graminearum, which causes significant losses in grain yield and grain quality, while also resulting in the production of mycotoxins that affect livestock feed, the baking and milling quality of wheat, and the malting and brewing qualities of malt barley. The Canadian Grain Commission allows very little FHB (expressed as fusarium damaged kernels, i.e. FDK's) tolerances in top grades. FHB-infected seed often reduces levels of germination and seedling vigor.

For more information, see Fusarium Head Blight of Barley and Wheat.

  1. What is the host range of Fusarium Head Blight?
  2. What is the life cycle of Fusarium Head Blight pathogen?
  3. What are the symptoms of Fusarium Head Blight?
  4. How does Fusarium Head Blight spread?
  5. What is the current Fusarium Head Blight situation in Alberta?
  6. What can be done to reduce the risk of Fusarium Head Blight on my farm?
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Further information regarding fusarium head blight can be obtained through your local extension representative or at a number of internet sites including:

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development 
Crop Protection guide - "Blue Book"
Alberta Fusarium Management Guide

Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives
Dealing with Fusarium Head Blight

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Fusarium Head Blight

Recommendations for control of fusarium head blight using fungicides: 
Fungicide for the Suppression of Fusarium Head Blight in Small Grains
Fungicide Spraying Techniques to Manage Fusarium Head Blight
Application of Fungicides for Suppression of Fusarium Head Blight (Scab)

fusarium

Stop Fusarium Before it Stops You

Fusarium graminearum is a serious cereal disease that has been spreading across Alberta. Learn how to manage it.

Check out this YouTube Video