Researchers shared the latest research on fungi that threaten seeds and crops across the country.
In an October 2, 2024 news release, the University of Kentucky (UK) announced the Martin Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s recent research on fusarium head blight (FHB) in hemp crops, which impacts product safety and quality. Emphasized research. The Martin Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment also published a fact sheet on the plant pathology of Fusarium head blight, specifically its identification, causes, management and additional resources in a news release. “Furist head blight (FHB) is a common cannabis disease that poses a significant threat to both cannabinoid/flower and grain producers.” “The disease causes severe wilting of the floral tissue, which can lead to direct yield loss and rejection by processors. It can also contaminate flowers.
Some of the preliminary findings, as highlighted in the news release, include:
Infection can begin months before symptoms appear. After harvest, infections can continue in stored cannabis. The same Fusarium species that affect cannabis crops also affect wheat, barley, and other crops.
The implications of the study highlight new concerns and challenges for farmers, crop rotation practices, and hemp processing.
Remarkably, this study revealed that infected cannabis produced mycotoxins. “As hemp becomes more widely used as animal feed, it is essential to ensure that the crop is free of harmful mycotoxins,” says Hemp Extension Plant Pathologist and Extension Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology. Nicole Gauthier explained in a press release. “Our research confirms that mycotoxins are produced from Fusarium-infected hemp, and further research is needed to understand the full extent of the risk.”
Some of the research team’s future goals are to develop disease-resistant hemp varieties and fungicides. The fact sheet includes several alternative methods of managing the disease based on its use in cereals and other disease systems.
