Cropside

TAKING A WALK through the field in late fall can provide valuable information which will guide spring management decisions.  Use the information below as a guide to what to look for and what it means for spring management.

 

Will it make it??Yes!

• This wheat will emerge under the snow over winter.  But in order to have big yields, you need to be ready to “throw the book” at it in the spring. 
• Weed control will be very important come spring. Dandelions or winter annuals have a huge jump on the crop. Spray with the appropriate herbicide before May 1st. For more information on weed management see www.weedpro75.com.
• This crop needs all the help it can get to tiller. Plan to apply at least half of the nitrogen on the frost in mid-March.

Small wheat with no weeds

• Check populations. Did most of the 23 seeds per foot of row make a plant?  Is the stand acceptable, or did many plants drown out?
• In wet falls like we have experienced this year, wheat will survive over the tile runs but not in between. If it is apparent that this is a problem, there is still time to replant between the tile runs and save the crop.
• This crop needs help to tiller.  Plan to apply at least half of the nitrogen on the frost in mid-March.

 

Looking good

• Excellent stand and well tillered. Manage this crop for high yields.
• No early management required.
• Target higher nitrogen rates applied in the last half of April.
• Fungicide applications are part of the package.
• Weed control may be optional.
  

What went wrong?

• With an intermittent stand like this, check the drill. Are worn parts the problem?
• Check planting depth.  Was the wheat not seeded into moisture?
• Is it a soil problem?  Check pH and nutrient levels.