Wheat: canary grass, rust and termites

In rabi wheat, early weed control and timely rust management make the biggest difference to yield. Canary grass (Phalaris minor) in particular can reduce yields badly if it is not controlled in the first 35 days.

Doses in this guide are taken from the product labels. Always read the label and leaflet before use, respect the pre-harvest interval, and check with your nearest Biostadt retailer or agronomist for advice specific to your field.

Weed control

• Grassy weeds (canary grass, wild oat): Patina 800–900 ml/ha, Maachis 400 g/ha or Dhwansh 60 g/ha, sprayed 30–35 days after sowing when weeds have 2–4 leaves.
• Use a flat-fan nozzle and 300–400 litres of water per hectare, and spray on moist soil.
• Rotate herbicides between seasons. Canary grass has developed resistance to some older herbicides in north India.

Termites

In light, dry soils, broadcast Janbaaz Gr at 20 kg/ha and irrigate lightly.

Rust and powdery mildew

• Yellow (stripe) rust: yellow powder in stripes along the leaf. Spray Alliance 750 ml/ha at the first sign.
• Brown and black rust: scattered orange-brown or dark pustules. Decimer 500 ml/ha.
• Powdery mildew: white patches on leaves. Decimer 500 ml/ha or Wokovit 2500 ml/ha.
• Repeat after 15 days if the disease is still spreading and the weather stays cool and humid.

Nutrition

Zinc deficiency (pale stripes on young leaves, stunted plants) is common in wheat. A foliar spray of BioGreen Zinc at 1 g per litre at tillering corrects it quickly.

Spray safely

• Wear gloves, a mask, full sleeves and eye protection while mixing and spraying.
• Spray in the early morning or late evening, never against the wind or before expected rain.
• Use clean water and the full recommended water volume. Poor coverage is the most common reason a spray "does not work".
• Do not mix products unless the label allows it. If unsure, do a jar test first.
• Keep children and animals away, and never reuse empty containers. Rinse them three times, puncture them and dispose of them safely.