Link between cereal stubble, subsurface acidity and crown rot

WHY THIS PROJECT IS NEEDED

Sampling conducted as part of the Improving soil to optimise water use on-farm project, identified high levels of Fusarium crown rot at sites with high stubble loads and subsurface acidity across the Riverine Plains.

This National Grower Network (NGN) project investment has been made by GRDC to further investigate the potential correlation between stubble management for subsurface acidity and Fusarium crown rot in cereals over multiple seasons.

In short: Consecutive good seasons, along with stubble retention and tight cereal rotations have favoured a build-up of Fusarium crown rot in the Riverine Plains. This project is investigating the potential link between Fusarium crown rot, subsoil acidity and stubble management techniques through demonstrations, surveys and trials to help farmers mitigate yield loss.

Project focus

The project has a focus on demonstration and extension activities to improve grower knowledge on the implications of stubble management and acidic soils on this disease, and how soil testing and management strategies can help reduce yield loss.

As part of the project, paddock surveys will be conducted annually across the Riverine Plains region for soil pH and Predicta®B DNA soil testing. Paddock (crop rotation) history and the stubble loads present will also be recorded.

A demonstration site at Murchison, originally established as part of the Improving soil to optimise water use on farm project, will be used to show how stubble management strategies can impact Fusarium crown rot pathogen levels over time and according to crop rotation. Predicta B, soil pH and growing season rainfall, as well as yield and quality measurements, will also be collected.

Case studies and strip trials will further demonstrate the effect of stubble management and acidic soils on Fusarium crown rot, providing an extension platform for peer-to-peer learning activities and case studies.

Project full title: NGN Scoping the correlation between stubble management for subsurface acidity and Fusarium crown rot in cereal.

Further reading

• Reducing the risk of cereal yield losses from Fusarium crown rot