Root and Crown Rot — Winterkill Complex of Winter Wheat

Root and crown rot of winter wheat is caused by the interaction of infection of roots and crowns by Bipolaris sorokiniana and/or Fusarium graminearum and harsh winter conditions. It reduces wheat yields each year.

The growth and development of winter wheat is limited by temperature, growing degree days, available water, soil fertility and disease and pest outbreaks.

The prevalence of root and crown rot varies within fields and across the major wheat growing areas of the state. It is most common in western Nebraska where drought and strong winter winds predispose seedlings to root and crown rot.