The powdery mildew of the wheat, Blumeria graminis, disease of the wheat

All cereals can be attacked by powdery mildew. Several forms of the disease are however specific for specific crops, and not causing cross infection.

Symptoms of wheat powdery mildew:

The symptoms of powdery mildew can be observed on leaves, stems and the ears, but it is the sheets which are most often attacked. Generally, white pustules develop, and produce a mass of spores with a powdery appearance. As and when they grow, the powdery mildew pustules darken and take on a gray or brown. Ultimately, organs containing black spores (the cleistothecia) are found embedded in powdery mildew pustules, usually towards the end of the season.