Fortunately, leaf rust does not overwinter to a great extent in other parts of the state. Even if leaves are infected in the fall, cold weather usually kills the leaves and the leaf rust pathogen living on them. In situations where the pathogen does not overwinter in a field, spores must come from other areas in the spring, and leaf rust has less time to cause damage. Most of the spores arriving in Arkansas probably come from Louisiana where the pathogen has a better chance of overwintering. Temperatures around 70 F and heavy dew at night are favorable for disease.
Resistant varieties are the best and most economical means of control.
The most common type of resistance in soft red winter wheats tends to be very effective against some races of the pathogen and totally ineffective against other races. The predominant races may change from year to year, and a variety that was resistant last year may not be resistant this year. Baytan seed treatment helps reduce overwintering leaf rust, and Bayleton and Tilt fungicides are very effective for controlling leaf rust on the leaves in the spring if they are properly applied. Fact Sheets on seed treatments, foliar fungicides, and resistant varieties are available at your county Extension office. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status or any other legally protected status, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.