Evidence for Pythium as a Pathogen of Direct-Drilled Wheat in the Pacific Northwest. R. J. Cook, Research Plant Pathologist, USDA, SEA, AR, Washington State University, Pullman 99164. J. W. Sitton, and J. T. Waldher, Agricultural Research Technicians, respectively, USDA, SEA, AR, Washington State University, Pullman 99164. Plant Dis. 64:102-103. Accepted for publication 9 March 1979. This article is in the public domain and not copyrightable. It may be freely reprinted with customary crediting of the source. The American Phytopathological Society, 1980. DOI: 10.1094/PD-64-102.

The problem of poor growth of wheat sown directly into undisturbed soil and stubble was eliminated and yields were increased about 40% with either methyl bromide fumigation or an in-furrow application of a granular formulation of N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-N-(methoxyacetyl)-alanine methyl ester (CGA 48988). The latter compound is specific for Pythium spp. and closely related fungi. Pythium ultimum was recovered from more than 50% of the plants in nontreated plots.

Keyword(s): chemical control, no-till.