Assessing Risk of Fusarium Head Blight in Barley

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a disease that must be managed before symptoms are visible.

Conditions vary considerably across the province – growers in areas that have had rain are more at risk for FHB.

Precipitation, humidity and warm temperatures create the optimal environmental conditions for the development of fusarium head blight.

Make sure you’re out walking the fields as barley approaches heading. If your legs are wet after walking through it, that’s an indicator for FHB risk.

Barley growers can compliment crop checks with the use of risk forecasting tools like the new Prairie-wide FHB Risk Maps that were launch in May 2024. This new online tool has maps specifically geared towards barley growers. Learn how to navigate the new FHB Risk Maps here. 

Be aware: Spotty showers may not be reflected in the FHB Risk Map, so be aware of localized conditions.

The risk maps are one tool that farmers have to assess risk, to guide decision-making for FHB management. SaskBarley’s BarleyBin podcast with Kelly Turkington, Scourge of Barley Quality and Yield: Managing Fusarium Head Blight provides a comprehensive overview of FHB management, including spray timing.

Check out these Disease Management Resources, and continue to watch the FHB Risk Map as your barley approaches heading.