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Bayer CropScience commercial technical manager Tim Nicholson says that with most T0s a week to ten days later than last season T1 applications should still be applied at final leaf three just fully emerged. “The gap between GS30 to GS32 could possibly be as short as two weeks. Growers might look to hold off T1 applications with such a short interval but I urge growers to stick with final leaf 3 just fully emerged – normally GS32. 

“If you want to enter the leaf flag timing in a protective situation then fully protecting leaf three is a must. Any movement from recommended timings risks disease becoming established. Regardless of when T0s are applied, hit GS32 and protect leaf three.”

And he says that the shortened gap between T0 and T1 applications should help eliminate the need for intermediate sprays and SDHIs at the T1. “In our trials we’ve seen no difference between Proline²⁷⁵ (prothioconazole) + CTL v Aviator²³⁵_Xpro (prothioconazole + bixafen) at the T1 in protective situations. It’s only when disease control has been compromised that the curative properties of an SDHI at the T1 timing come into their own,” he notes.

Which he suggests could help save between £6-12/ha off fungicide bills this season. “Many T0s haven’t needed a rust active azole, saving approximately £6/ha. Get azole dose and timing right at the T1 and you’ll save another £6/ha or more by going the Proline²⁷⁵ + CTL route. Given wheat prices where they are right now that could be invaluable in crop profitability,” he concludes.