It’s generally too early for the first major fungicide (T1 against Septoria) so where yellow rust is active a holding fungicide will be needed. Generally levels are low to moderate, therefore use Corbel (for knockdown) and a Strob (Modem, etc). Once applied, the main fungicides (T1, T2, etc) are robust enough to control rust for the reminder of the season. Dissect out leaves to check where you are with regard to the third-last leaf being fully emerged for the T1 fungicide on wheat. Once first nodes are clear, apply PGR and this can be as basic as CCC alone. Temperatures look set to remain cool but there is a dry week forecast, which should help to get work done.

Winter barley crops have generally moved into stem extension, so first fungicides should be applied where two sprays are being used. T1 options depend on the target – triazole plus SDHI or strobilurin when targeting rhyncho or tebuconazole plus strobilurin where rust is the target.

On wheat the T1 options will include a straight triazole plus chlorothalonil, with or without an SDHI. Consider both the T1 and T2 at the same time so as to use a different triazole at T2.

Know your rusts to help protect your crops

Tillage management notes: good weather for growth and planting

Tillage management notes: nitrogen application

Tillage management notes: yellow rust control

Yellow rust is more of a feature this year in winter wheat.