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Cold temperature or frost damage continues to be the major concern on winter wheat in Missouri.

We have had a few more reports of virus-like symptoms in wheat, particularly symptoms of wheat spindle streak mosaic and/or wheat soil-borne mosaic (see issue 4 of Integrated Pest and Crop Management Newsletter, 2007 for descriptions of wheat virus diseases).

Powdery mildew has been reported in some fields, especially fields showing lodging as a result of low temperature damage. Other foliage diseases do not appear to be widespread or severe at this time.

Wheat in the southern part of the state, especially in the Boot Heel is beginning to flower. Wet conditions, frequent light rains, heavy dews as the crop is flowering or immediately after flowering can be conducive for the development of scab or Fusarium head blight.

Laura Sweets
SweetsL@missouri.edu