Wheat streak mosaic complex caused major damage to wheat fields in central and western Kansas in 2025. The outbreak was worsened by harvest delays and hail, which led to more volunteer wheat, key hosts for the wheat curl mite that spreads the virus. To reduce the risk of another outbreak in 2026, it's critical to implement wheat-free windows, which are 30-day periods before the optimal wheat planting window, during which all volunteer wheat and other host cereals are terminated. Coordinated community efforts are essential, as the wheat curl mite is a shared threat across farms.
We encourage crop advisors, seed dealers, extension agents, and other ag professionals to share the attached one-pager with growers and customers. It outlines the recommended volunteer wheat control windows and serves as a helpful reminder to reduce the risk of wheat streak mosaic virus this fall. Your efforts can make a big impact in keeping the 2026 wheat crop healthy across Kansas.
