Stem rust causes blister-like lesions on leaves, leaf sheaths, and stems. Infection of glumes and awns is also possible. The reddish-brown spores of the fungus cause considerable tearing as they burst through the outer layers of the plant tissues. Mature stem rust lesions are more elongated than those of leaf rust. Stem rust is typically most severe on later-maturing wheat varieties.

Management: Genetic resistance, foliar fungicides, select early-maturing varieties.

  •  Link to Fungicide Efficacy Table – pdf