Ergot in rye

The ergot attack is influenced by a variety of factors. In the illustration, these factors are arranged in order of the feasibility of controlling them.

The ergot fungus is found in cereals and more than 400 other grass species. Blossoming wild grasses at the edges of fields and in the plots can be utilised by Claviceps purpurea as an intermediate host. To reduce the risk of ergot infection, grass weeds must be systematically controlled:

• Mulching of field margins and fallow fields
• Controlling grass weeds (host plants) in the crop

When rye is planted after rye, soil working with turnover should be employed so that the germinated ergot fungus does not reach the soil surface.
Delayed, extended or non-uniform flowering increases the risk of ergot infection.
The following measures contribute to achieving a uniform, brief flowering time:

• Optimal sowing density
• Balanced nitrogen fertilisation
• Use of growth regulators that is adapted to site and weather conditions
• Sufficiently wide driving aisles
• Avoidance of unnecessary driving on the field

The location factor is generally difficult to modify. When selecting a field for cultivating rye, it is necessary to keep in mind that locations open to the wind promote pollen dispersion. Pollen dispersion can be inhibited at locations with delayed drying of the crop field (edges of forests, shaded areas).