How to Treat Barley Seed

Monitor barley fields consistently during the growing season. Walk through fields in a W-shape pattern to thoroughly check for disease. Identifying illnesses in the beginning stages is key to treatment of barley seed. The earlier you do this, the less damage to seeds and seedlings.

Once you identify what disease your barley crop has, treat it with the appropriate fungicide. Read instructions on the fungicide carefully for correct application procedures.

Use a systemic fungicide to control loose smut. This is the only treatment effective on this illness. The best fungicides to control loose smut are triadimenol known as Baytan, triticonazole known as Real and tebuconazole commercially known as Raxi, according to a study by Geoff Thomas and Dr. Kith Jayasena from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Food.

Treat stem rust, a relatively new illness for barley, by planting the crop early. This prevents onset of the illness and reduces the likelihood of crop failure.

Never use seeds treated for human consumption. Also, do not use them for animal feed. The residue of the treatment is often toxic and can have an adverse affect on people and animals.