In recent years, farmers have noticed a troubling phenomenon when wheat reaches maturity: large white panicles often appear, leading to a significant drop in yield. Many farmers are unsure of the cause, but this issue is actually due to two common wheat diseases—sheath blight and head blight.
Sheath blight is primarily caused by excessive planting density, poor air circulation in the field, and the presence of *Rhizoctonia* fungi in the soil. The initial signs include dark spots on the lower parts of the wheat stems. As the disease progresses, these dark spots may turn white, and the stem base becomes completely rotten. This prevents the plant from absorbing nutrients, causing the entire stem and ear to wither and turn white.
Head blight, on the other hand, occurs during the flowering stage when rain carries *Fusarium* spores into the wheat florets. This infection stops grain filling, and some ears develop scabs while others turn white and stop growing. In severe cases, the entire head becomes unviable.
To manage sheath blight, farmers should apply 220–250 ml of 50% Jinggangmycin solution per acre mixed with 50–70 kg of water, both before and after wheat heading. For head blight, it’s essential to spray 50% carbendazim or 50% thiophanate-methyl wettable powder immediately after flowering. If rain is expected during the flowering period, spraying should be done before the rain. If not, a second application should be made during a dry interval, ideally within seven days.
Zhou Zhongyuan 98-68, a new wheat variety developed by Zhengzhou Liu Hu Seed Co., Ltd., has a high yield potential but is particularly vulnerable to these diseases due to its dense growth habit and susceptibility during rainy flowering periods. Farmers cultivating this variety must remain vigilant. With proper management, yields can typically reach around 500 kilograms per acre.
This year, a warm winter has led to increased pest and disease pressure, as well as overcrowded wheat stands that reduce air circulation and sunlight penetration. These conditions create an ideal environment for disease outbreaks. Farmers are strongly advised not to overlook these issues and to implement strict disease prevention measures to protect their crops.
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