Influence of resistant and susceptible cultivar blends of hard red spring wheat on wheat stem sawfly (Hymenoptera: Cephidae) damage and wheat quality parameters

Use of resistant and susceptible cultivar blends of hard red spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were investigated over a 3-yr period as a method to suppress wheat stem sawfly, Cephus cinctus Norton, damage. Blends provided inconsistent protection against stem cutting. Differences in estimated harvestable yield were only detected in 1 year. Total yield and milling and baking qualities of blends were not significantly different from those of monocultures. Blends may be useful in situations where the potential for damage by wheat stem sawfly is low to moderate.