Volunteer Wheat Control Crucial in Managing Virus Complex Spread

The wheat streak mosaic virus complex is a major concern for farmers, and one key factor in managing its spread is controlling volunteer wheat. According to Stacy Campbell of the Cottonwood Extension District, there are two critical periods for volunteer control: immediately after harvest and prior to fall planting.

Volunteer wheat present at harvest serves as an ideal habitat for curl mites, which vector and spread the virus from one crop to another. Controlling this wheat as soon as possible will help dilute mite populations heading into the remaining summer months.

The K-State Research & Extensions updated recommendation for volunteer wheat control includes regional recommendations for wheat-free windows. These windows include a period of 30 days prior to the start of the optimal winter wheat planting window by zone in Kansas.

Campbell emphasizes that coordinated efforts within communities will be essential in managing the spread of the virus complex. She recommends terminating and completely deadening all volunteer wheat prior to the start of the regional wheat-free window.