Black keeled slugs are still causing many issues where they are found. Particularly if management was compromised due to access issues for spreading bait. No crop type has been safe.
Blackleg levels in canola are very high in some Wimmera crops due to high pressure and early sowing.
Powdery mildew in wheat has been reported about two weeks earlier than last year in the Mallee.
Net form net blotch (NFNB) and Septoria are present in barley and wheat respectively. Fungicide plans are being actioned where risk is greatest.
In the northern Mallee there has been some crop wilting despite good moisture—suspect compaction is the cause. It is a good time to check and identify areas that can be managed out of season. Other than that, growers are quietly positive about the season.
Urea was going out before rain this week with growers recognising opportunities given crop need and the seasonal outlook. Supply may be a concern for those who have not organised early in the short term.
Some regions are having access issues again due to rain, it is likely track renovations will likely be on the cards
again this summer.
Mice continue to be a problem in isolated regions, some have baited three times.
Considerations of fungicide plans are already 1occurring with recent weather.