By Blake Jackson
The University of Missouri Plant Diagnostic Clinic is providing a valuable resource for Missouri wheat growers. They're offering free testing for five common wheat viruses that can significantly impact crop health and yield. This program, usually costing $65 per sample, allows any Missouri resident to submit wheat samples for testing.
The viruses the clinic screens for include Wheat streak mosaic virus, Wheat spindle streak mosaic virus, Soil-borne wheat mosaic virus, Barley yellow dwarf virus, and Cereal yellow dwarf virus. By offering this free service, the clinic aims to achieve a two-fold benefit. Firstly, they hope to collect valuable data on the prevalence of these viruses across different wheat varieties grown in Missouri. This information will empower farmers to make informed decisions about planting resistant varieties and implementing effective control measures in the upcoming seasons.
Secondly, the clinic plans to utilize the collected wheat samples to further develop and refine diagnostic methods for these viruses. This research can improve the accuracy and efficiency of future testing, allowing for earlier detection and intervention. Additionally, the program seeks to identify new and emerging wheat viruses, such as High Plains virus (HPV) and Triticum mosaic virus (TriMV). This proactive approach can help farmers stay ahead of potential threats to their crops.
To participate in this program, Missouri residents can submit wheat samples following the clinic's guidelines. These guidelines typically involve collecting symptomatic plant tissue and including crucial information like the sample's location and the wheat variety it came from. This ensures proper sample analysis and interpretation of the test results.
For more information on sample submission, please visit MU-PDC website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Wheat