Loose Smut and Common Bunt of Wheat

The smut diseases of wheat that occur in Nebraska are loose smut and common bunt. Loose smut is caused by the fungus ustilago tritci and common bunt is caused by the fungi Tilletia tritici and T. laevis. Both diseases can occur anywhere in the state where wheat is grown and are noticeable from heading to harvest. Rye, triticale, and some grasses also can be affected by both diseases.