Measure the effects of planting date on yield loss due to WSMV

Wheat in northern Texas is commonly used as a dual purpose crop for both grazing and grain production. Wheat is planted early in the season in late August and early September causing the wheat to be exposed to a variety of insect pests as well as many viral diseases including WSMV. The severity of wheat streak is dependent on the time of infection. A study was conducted to determine the effects of time of inoculation on disease severity. It was concluded that earlier infections caused an increased reduction in grain yield when compared to later infection. (unpublished data)