Caused by the fungus Rhynchosporium secalis, this foliar disease thrives in cool, wet conditions. It manifests as pale, ovate lesions with dark brown margins on the leaves and sheaths. Severe infections destroy the plant's photosynthetic area, leading to poor grain fill and significant yield losses. It overwinters on crop residue, making rotation and residue management critical for control.
Heard on the job
We had too much rain in May and now the barley scald is moving up the canopy fast.
Also heard as
- scald