Spring rains are a welcome sight across many regions of the country facing drought conditions. However, the recent rains have increased the possibility of head scab in the winter wheat crop.

University of Illinois Assistant Professor Dr. Jessica Rutkoski explained that head scab infects primarily at the flowering stage. The losses are caused by the formation of vomitoxin. Fields that did not receive a fungicide treatment are at the greatest risk.

According to Rutkowski, not much can be done about the head scab once an infection sets in. While extremely high levels of the disease are not expected, producers should monitor the situation.

Read more on head scab concerns for the winter wheat crop here.