Factors to consider when planting wheat
The basics of picking your planting times and how to ensure the best start for your wheat crop revolve around soil temperature, moisture, timing, depth, and seeding rates. It’s September, which means it’s time to break out the drills and air seeders.
Climate
The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 54 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit, and having the right moisture at planting is critical for proper germination and a successful wheat crop. The latest seed innovations have helped reduce the chances of wheat winter damage, so being a little late is no longer an issue.
Moisture content
Imbibing occurs when the wheat seed begins to take in water; according to Michigan State University Extension, soil moisture content should be between 35 and 45% in order for the seed to germinate. Some people wait for it to rain before planting.
Timing
The “fly-free date” is when the Hessian fly reaches adulthood. In Kansas, there are four zones with ideal planting dates, which are listed below. Planting after the recommended dates can reduce yields by up to 3.5 bushels per acre per day.
Depth
The ideal depth for planting should be around one inch, with plenty of moisture and coverage.
Seeding Rates
If the crop is irrigated or planted later, seeding rates should be increased by 30 to 60%. This is because the window of opportunity to grow tillers has narrowed, so planting more seeds means planting more primary tillers.
What is the best month to plant wheat?
Spring wheat can be planted while the soil is still cool, so sow in late summer or early fall for an overwintered crop. Broadcast seed into cultivated soil about 3 inches (7 cm) apart and one-half inch (1 cm) deep.
Can you grow wheat in Kansas?
Wheat is grown in every county in Kansas, but it is most widely in the central part; it is rarely a profitable crop in Southwestern Kansas. Almost all wheat grown in Kansas is sown in the fall. Hard wheats are best suited to Central and Western Kansas, while soft wheats are better for the eastern part.
What time of year does wheat get planted?
Spring wheat is planted in the spring and harvested in the summer and fall, whereas winter wheat is planted in the fall or winter and harvested in the spring and summer.
What are Kansas farmers planting now?
Riley County is located in the state of Oklahoma.
- Winter Wheat. September 25 – October 20 (Hessian Fly Free date is October 4)
- Triticale. September 1 – 25.
- Corn. April 1 – May 10.
- Sorghum. May 15 – June 20.
- Sudangrass. May 20 – July 10.
- Sunflowers. May 10 – July 10.
How deep do you plant wheat?
How deep should I drill wheat, barley, and oats to find moisture? The optimum seeding depth for small grains is 1.5 to 2 inches under most conditions, aiming to place the seed in a zone with plenty of moisture but shallow enough for the crop to emerge quickly.
How do you prepare soil for growing wheat?
Ploughing should be done in the evening and furrows should be left open all night to absorb dew moisture, followed by two to three ploughings with local plough and then planking.
How long is wheat harvest in Kansas?
Wheat harvest in Kansas usually starts in early to mid-June and ends in mid-July, starting in the south central part of the state and moving north and west. Harvest reports are usually published Sunday through Thursday evenings.
Where is wheat grown in Kansas?
Hard Red Winter wheat (40%) u2014 Used for flat breads, cakes, pastries, and crackers; grown in all Kansas counties. Soft Red Winter (1%) u2014 Used for flat breads, cakes, pastries, and crackers; grown in the eastern part of the state.
How long does it take for wheat to sprout?
In 2-3 days, tiny sprouts should appear, indicating that sprouting is complete. Drain well before using or storing.
Is it illegal to grow wheat at home?
Commercial wheat operations, which rely heavily on commercial pesticides and fertilizers for production, are often very traumatic to otherwise fertile land, making it illegal to grow wheat at home.
How do you know when wheat is ready to harvest?
Some wheat plants are harvested in the summer, while others are harvested in the fall. When the wheat plant reaches its final stage of growth, meaning it is dry enough and no green is visible, it is ready to be harvested with a combine, which combines reaping, threshing, and winnowing.
What vegetables can be planted in July in Kansas?
Planting dates are determined by the length of time it takes for a crop to mature and its ability to withstand a freeze. Cucumbers, summer squash, and beans can be planted from late July to early August, while broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage transplants can be planted at the same time.
When can I plant tomatoes in Kansas?
Plant in mid-May In the Kansas City area, mid-May is the best time to plant because the risk of frost has passed and the air and soils have warmed enough to support growth. Plants planted earlier are stressed by cool conditions. Tomatoes can be planted later, even into June, but the harvest will be delayed.