Idaho's winter crops require protection from BYD, Stripe

Winter planting is almost complete in Idaho, according to Juliet Marshall from the University of Idaho, but it must be quickly treated with an insecticidal seed treatment to curb the infestation from Barley Yellow Dwarf (BYD) and Stripe.

BYD can cause yield loss if the crops were planted too early because the insecticide may run out before it is time to harvest the crops. Stripe was found in early fall planted winter crops, increasing the risk that crops in Idaho will see Stripe at some stage of crop growth.

Detrimental aphids are being found in every winter wheat crop this year, which is helpful to researchers in finding new insecticides for next year. They carry the BYD virus to multiple plants where they can colonize and destroy crops. BYD infected crops are identified by the yellowing or reddening of the leaves from tip to root.

The best way to control BYD and Stripe is to comply with the region’s planting dates because they are researched in order to curtail BYD infestations. Also, farmers need to make sure they treat with an insecticide that will eliminate the primary infection and monitor the aphids.