THE EFFECT OF DDT ON THE STEM RUST REACTION OF KHAPLI WHEAT

Abstract

Seedling leaves of Khapli wheat—a variety highly resistant to physiologic races of wheat stem rust prevalent in North America—became susceptible to stem rust a few days after they had been sprayed with DDT (1 oz. in 5 gal. water). The response to DDT was highly specific, as only one other of the resistant wheats tested (Arnautka) showed any indication of susceptibility consequent on spraying. Specificity of response was also indicated by the development of marked chlorosis on leaves of some varieties, whereas other varieties remained unaffected.