Key Point
- 2005 was a particularly bad year for Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV). The worst affected crops tended to be those sown in July and August.
- Initial BYDV infections occur when infected aphids fly into crops. Secondary spread is caused by populations multiplying within the crop.
- Warmer temperatures shorten aphid lifecycles, increase survival and encourage flights. Therefore a more intensive control programme will be needed.
- Cold wet windy conditions slow aphid development and reproduction, reduce survival and flights. A less intensive control programme will be needed.
- Seed treatments, foliar insecticides and aphid predators can reduce aphid populations, hence minimize BYDV.