Effects of stubble-borne fungal inoculum on incidence of leaf diseases and yields of barley in Western Australia

Abstract

Effect of stubble residues on leaf diseases and yield of barley (Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Dampier) were studied by adding small quantities of infested stubble to test plots grown on land where a non-barley crop or pasture had been grown in the previous year. Experiments conducted at 5 locations in 198 1 and 1982 showed that stubble residues increased leaf disease. The severity of leaf disease varied with location and year. High levels of scald (Rhynchosporium secalis) were recorded at all locations, but substantial levels of net blotch (Drechslera teres) occurred only at northern locations. Halo spot (Selenophoma donacis) and a leaf spot caused by Drechslera verticillata were either absent or occurred in minor proportions. The incidence of powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis f.sp. hordei) at Mt Barker in 1982 was not related to the presence of stubble residues. Grain yield losses of 9 and 28% occurred in the stubble amended plots in 1981 and 1982, respectively. Reductions in number of heads and number of seeds per plot appeared to be the major components of yield loss.