Yellow rust is a fungal disease that affects wheat crops worldwide, causing significant yield losses and reduced grain quality. This disease is caused by fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici and spreads quickly under favorable environmental conditions. In this article, we will discuss the various methods of controlling yellow rust in wheat.
Cultural control measures: These measures include the use of crop rotations, timely sowing, and removal of infected plant debris. Crop rotation is an essential method in controlling yellow rust among wheat crops, as continuous mono-cropping allows the spores to build up in the soil. Timely sowing of the wheat crop in-season helps escape the disease during favorable weather conditions. Removing infected plant debris from the field is also a recommended method to prevent the fungus’s spread.
Chemical control measures: Fungicides remain the primary control measure for wheat yellow rust. Prophylactic sprays of fungicides provide protective fungicidal cover to the growing plant and its foliage. Many systemic and contact fungicides are available in the market to control yellow rust in wheat. Ensure that you apply these chemicals according to the appropriate doses and timing provided by authorized bodies such as FAO and the relevant government authorities.
Biological control measures: This method involves the use of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi to suppress the yellow rust infection. For example, the use of the fungus Trichoderma harzianum leads to the pathogen’s suppression and increased immunity against yellow rust.
Breeding wheat varieties: Wheat-breeding techniques have enabled the development of yellow rust-resistant varieties that are disease-tolerant and have improved immunity. These varieties enhance the control of yellow rust as they act as a barrier to the spread of the fungus.
In conclusion, despite the increase in the abundance and virulence of wheat yellow rust, both farmers and scientists have multiple methods to control the disease. The most effective measures have been through the integration of cultural and chemical controls, with biological methods and breeding resistant varieties providing further solutions. It is recommended to use a combination of any of the above methods to control wheat yellow rust effectively.