Wheat Stem Rust

Wheat stem rust is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Puccinia graminis. It infects wheat plants, causing reddish-brown rust-colored spores on stems and leaves. The infection weakens the plant’s structure, leading to reduced grain production and sometimes plant death. It spreads quickly through wind-borne spores, especially under moist, warm conditions. The disease is a major threat to wheat crops worldwide, but can be managed through resistant varieties, crop rotation, and fungicides. Monitoring and early detection are key to controlling its spread and minimizing economic impact.