Rust infection on the leaves in ryegrass seed production fields near Baudette and Roseau have been reported by producers and agronomists. The first observation of rust in ryegrass of the 2006 season was observed on the afternoon of 6/5/06.  Plant samples are being collected and will be sent to the U of MN for confirmation and identification of the rust. 

It is important that the ryegrass fields should be scouted several times a week as rust can rapidly advance and can do severe damage to the crop. Ryegrass varieties vary in the susceptibility to the rust pathogen.  Some varieties are very susceptible to rust while other varieties have some tolerance to rust. 

Last year yield loss due to rust was reported and the seed of infected fields was light and of poor quality. For specific information about varieties contact your seed agronomist. 

There are a number of fungicides that can control rust in ryegrass. Contact your agronomist for details on use and timing of the fungicide. For up to date information on grass seed production see the Northern Minnesota Grass Seed Growers Newsletter

http://www.agnewsonline.com/grass/index.htm

2006 Annual Grass Seed Plot Tour near Roseau

Wednesday                        June 28, 2006

The annual Grass Seed Plot Tour will take place near and at the Magnusson research site northwest of Roseau on Wednesday June 28.

The tour will start at 5:00 p.m. at an on farm perennial ryegrass trial area 1 ½ mile east and 1 mile south of the main research site. Professor Nancy Ehlke, Plant Breeder for the University of Minnesota, will be guiding the tour and be available to address questions.

Along with observing the traditional perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass variety plots, Dr. Ehlke will discuss and show the University research on palisade and fertility, wild oat control in established grass fields, and also the sterile seedbed study looking at trying to establish the new Kentucky bluegrass varieties.
 
Professor Don Wyse, University of Minnesota Weed Scientist, will be showing the research on Off-Type Management of Kentucky Bluegrass.