Stripe rust has been found in several fields of wheat in south central Kansas, including Barton County. At the time it was found, it was still at low levels and in trace amounts. With the cool wet weather we have been experiencing, it is something that producers should be on the watch for, and scouting their fields to identify and monitor.  
Fields with the best yield potential should be the top priority for scouting. It is very unlikely that fungicides applications will be needed if the disease is absent or found at low levels prior to heading. However, if the disease continues to progress, fields with low disease now may need a fungicide application in the near future. With the low wheat prices, it could take at least a 5-bushel yield response to a fungicide application to break even. Drought and the overall viability of the field should be a consideration as well.
The most effective fungicide applications are made between flag leaf emergence and the flowering stages of growth. The boot and heading stages of growth are optimal. Be sure and follow the label directions on the fungicide product. Some fungicides are off label for application when wheat reaches the flowering stages of growth. Other product’s labeling allow applications during flowering but have a pre-harvest interval of 30 days. For more information about fungicide options on wheat, you can call the extension office at 620-793-1910 or review the K-State Research and Extension publication EP-130’ Foliar Fungicide Efficacy for Wheat Disease Management
Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent for Barton County K-state Research and Extension. One can contact her by email at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910