Diseases caused by fungi, particularly fungal leaf diseases, are generally most destructive in the cooler, wetter areas of Alberta. Barley leaf diseases of significant importance are listed in table 1. Flame chlorosis has not been found in Alberta. Both fungi overwinter on barley stubble and usually occur together. Scald is the major disease found in the cooler, wetter regions of western and northern Alberta.
Net blotch predominates in the central and southern regions of the province.
Septoria complex, viral and fungal stripe, gray speck and barley yellow dwarf virus usually cause losses of less economic significance. These blotches first appear water-soaked. Later they turn light grey and are edged by distinctive dark brown margins. Some strains of the fungus produce round brown spots rather than the net-like blotches. During moist spring weather, both fungi produce infectious spores on diseased barley stubble.