Test barley seed for loose smut

True loose smut levels on barley seed are higher than usual this year, especially for seed from southwest Saskatchewan and southern Alberta. That's the word from Barry Little, client services manager with 20/20 Seed Labs in Nisku, Alta. At this point in 2008-09, 28.6 per cent of all samples tested at the lab have some level of infection. At the same point last year, 10.9 per cent were infected. 

Infected seed, if planted as is, will often lead to infected grain. To stop or slow the cycle, you can use a seed treatment with true loose smut on the label. Or you can find a new source of seed.

Seed testing labs, including 20/20 and others, can test for true loose smut levels on seed. The test takes seven or eight days, so you'll want to take action soon to have the results back before you want to start seeding. If you have mild levels, a seed treatment can help. If you have higher levels, new seed is probably the best answer.