Head smut of prairie grass and mountain brome: a review

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Abstract
Information on head smut disease of prairie grass (Bromus willdenowii Kunth) and mountain brome (B. sitchensis Trin.) is reviewed, with particular reference to the New Zealand forage cultivars ‘Grasslands Matua’ and ‘Grasslands Hakari’. The biology of Ustilago bullata Berk., the fungus that causes head smut, and development of the disease are described. The disease can greatly reduce seed production of host grasses and can reduce establishment, vegetative growth, and plant survival of prairie grass-effects that are potentially harmful to forage production. Systemic fungicide seed treatments and strict enforcement of suitable seed certiftcation regulations can adequately control the disease. The implementation of suitable control measures will minimise the harmful effects of head smut disease on productivity of host grasses.

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