FHB Risk Model University of Manitoba – Barley, Durum, Spring Wheat, Winter Wheat
Manasah Mkhabela PhD., Research Associate University of Manitoba Soil Science
To increase understanding of resulting Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) infection for spring and winter wheat, barley and durum based on the current model.
Farmers need improved decision-making tools in order to assess the local risk of Fusarium Head Blight (FHB). Better tools would improve judgement on whether or not to use fungicide and how to time application. The project recognizes that the current model for predicting the presence of FHB is insufficient and is gathering data across the province for different treatment plans using both known fusarium resistant and fusarium susceptible varieties.
This project design centred on learning more about how spore density in the air at specific times of plant maturation affected FHB infection. The specific window of interest is during flowering and up to five days before flowering.
Grain samples sent away to analyze for grading, fusarium species assessment, and mycotoxin analysis. PCDF will post a link when this report is available.