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Tackling early yellow rust tightly
Yellow rust has become increasingly common in recent years. Early infestation can cause significant damage. A targeted approach to T0 is more effective than 'smuggling' with the T1 spray.
Technical product specialist Guus Bergmans of BASF once again takes up the recent figures from BASF's European growers network. And it turns out: septoria is still the most important disease. But in the Netherlands, according to Bergmans, that fungus has almost been caught up by yellow rust. And that is because the resistance of the wheat varieties is regularly broken, while the control strategies are mainly focused on septoria. "The danger of rusting mainly lies in their rapid multiplication," says Bergmans.
Early spraying in basic strategy
The rust cycle lasts only ten days under favorable conditions, which is more than twice as fast as septoria. If you don't tackle rust in time, you will keep falling behind. In the grain country of England, this awareness is now amply present. T0 spraying against yellow rust is almost always part of the basic strategy there, says Bergmans. "I don't want to talk growers into extra spraying, but it is important that they walk through their cereal crops regularly from mid-March or have them checked by their adviser."
Do not alter time T1
If yellow rust is found before mid-April, Bergmans advises to tackle it in a targeted manner and not to bring T1 spraying forward. The T1 and T2 are the most important sprays for a high yield. The timing is very accurate. "If you bring the T1 forward, you run the risk of an intermediate spraying being necessary because the interval between T1 and T2 becomes too long. Also, stems can fall because you let the rust run its course for too long." According to Bergmans, the new fungicide is retengo perfect for tackling early rust. "Retengo contains pyraclostrobin and that substance is very strong against rusting; it also does not suffer from resistance."
Good practical experiences
In addition to good test results, Bergmans can also report convincing practical experiences. A number of his trial field owners have treated a job in a practical plot with Retengo. "You saw the difference right at the finish. The retengostrip looked healthier, fresher and fuller."
This is Retengo:
- The active substance pyraclostrobin is strong on rust
- EC formulation: dries very quickly and is rainproof
- Low recommended dose: 0,75 l/ha
- Mixable with growth regulators, herbicides and insecticides
- For test results go to www.agro.basf.nl
