Leaf rust has been found in a wheat sample from Dunedoo, prompting the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) to call for action.

“This issue should not be taken lightly as it has the potential to

devastate the Australian grains

industry,” GRDC manager of

crop protection Rohan Rainbow said.

University of Sydney plant pathologist Colin Wellings says growers should “plan for control strategies”.

“One sample from Marombi wheat at Dunedoo was infected with leaf rust and a sample of stripe rust was taken from Tobruk triticale at Young,” he said. “This is a notably early occurrence for rust diseases in commercial fields.”

Dr Wellings said a wet summer had contributed to survival of rust pathogens and, depending on seasonal conditions for crop growth in 2008, he expected rusts would be widespread and potentially damaging.

“Crops now well established from early seeding will need to be inspected immediately,” he said.

Foliar fungicides combined with strategic grazing should be considered, he said, with due attention paid to withholding periods.

Growers support the Australian Cereal Rust Control Program through the GRDC.

Dr Rainbow said current GRDC-supported trials showed the use of fungicides at seeding for main season and late-planted wheat provided early crop protection.

“Selection of rust-resistant varieties, teamed with control of the green bridge of volunteer plants over summer and strategic fungicide use, are the three clear strategies we need growers to take on board,” he said.

Plant samples can be analysed by mailing them in paper envelopes, without plastic wrapping or lining, to the Australian Cereal Rust Survey, Plant Breeding Institute, Private Bag 11, Camden NSW 2570.

Alternatively, call 9351 8800.