Leaf Rust Showing Up in Davis Wheat Trials

This year, we are seeing leaf rust in our UC Davis wheat breeding trials. Normally, we do not see leaf rust here because the growing season is cool. By the time temperatures are warm enough for leaf rust, the crop is already maturing. 

This year is different. A warmer winter and early season allowed both stripe rust and leaf rust to develop. This could become more important if warm winters continue. 

We are closely monitoring disease levels and evaluating how our breeding lines respond. Growers and researchers should also keep an eye out for leaf rust in the field this season.