Written by janineadamson from CPM Magazine
Oilseed rape growers are being encouraged to inspect for signs of light leaf spot as high levels of the disease are being reported in UK crops.
Light leaf spot thrives in cool, moist conditions meaning recent wet weather has contributed to its prevalence. Furthermore, AHDB’s Mark Bollebakker says while inspecting Recommended List trials recently, he’s not seen such high levels of infection at some locations before.
“Farmers should be wary of this outbreak as it could potentially have an impact on yields unless carefully managed through the use of fungicides during the next couple of weeks.
“The spread of light leaf spot has been particularly bad in areas of the country that have been impacted by the poor conditions during the past few months. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection, in the early stages especially, and it can be a real challenge to spot.
“The biggest risk now is if the infection gets onto the pods, which can cause them to become brittle and thereby shed their seed prematurely before harvest,” he explains.
Symptoms
Light leaf spot is caused by Pyrenopeziza brassicae and is characterised by small, light green or brown spots on the leaves of the plant.
AHDB senior crop production systems scientist, Paul Gosling, says it’s vital that growers are wary of how easily the disease can spread.
“The fungus overwinters on crop residue and can be spread quickly through rain splash and wind, as well as by contaminated machinery such as tractors sprayers. Once the fungus infects a plant, it can quickly spread throughout the entire crop if left untreated.
“In addition to causing significant, direct yield loss, light leaf spot can also weaken the plant, making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. This can further impact crop health and yield, making it essential for growers to properly manage and control the spread of the disease,” he adds.
Monitoring
“Regular monitoring of crops for early signs of infection is crucial for effective management and where the disease is established, growers should consider using fungicides,” says Paul.
Further guidance can be found in AHDB’s Fungicide Dose Response Curves for oilseed rape: Fungicide performance 2023 V2.pdf (projectblue.blob.core.windows.net)
The post Light leaf spot warning appeared first on Crop Production Magazine.
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Oilseed rape growers are being encouraged to inspect for signs of light leaf spot as high levels of the disease are being reported in UK crops.
Light leaf spot thrives in cool, moist conditions meaning recent wet weather has contributed to its prevalence. Furthermore, AHDB’s Mark Bollebakker says while inspecting Recommended List trials recently, he’s not seen such high levels of infection at some locations before.
“Farmers should be wary of this outbreak as it could potentially have an impact on yields unless carefully managed through the use of fungicides during the next couple of weeks.
“The spread of light leaf spot has been particularly bad in areas of the country that have been impacted by the poor conditions during the past few months. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection, in the early stages especially, and it can be a real challenge to spot.
“The biggest risk now is if the infection gets onto the pods, which can cause them to become brittle and thereby shed their seed prematurely before harvest,” he explains.
Symptoms
Light leaf spot is caused by Pyrenopeziza brassicae and is characterised by small, light green or brown spots on the leaves of the plant.
AHDB senior crop production systems scientist, Paul Gosling, says it’s vital that growers are wary of how easily the disease can spread.
“The fungus overwinters on crop residue and can be spread quickly through rain splash and wind, as well as by contaminated machinery such as tractors sprayers. Once the fungus infects a plant, it can quickly spread throughout the entire crop if left untreated.
“In addition to causing significant, direct yield loss, light leaf spot can also weaken the plant, making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. This can further impact crop health and yield, making it essential for growers to properly manage and control the spread of the disease,” he adds.
Monitoring
“Regular monitoring of crops for early signs of infection is crucial for effective management and where the disease is established, growers should consider using fungicides,” says Paul.
Further guidance can be found in AHDB’s Fungicide Dose Response Curves for oilseed rape: Fungicide performance 2023 V2.pdf (projectblue.blob.core.windows.net)
The post Light leaf spot warning appeared first on Crop Production Magazine.
Continue reading on CPM website...
If you are enjoying what you read then why not considering subscribing here: http://www.cpm-magazine.co.uk/subscribe/
