Early Spring Wheat Stand Checks - Key to Crop Success

By Blake Jackson

Wisconsin's winter wheat faces potential winterkill due to prolonged cold and minimal snow cover. Assessing stands in early spring is crucial for farmers to determine crop viability. Without snow's insulation, wheat plants are vulnerable to freezing, which can damage crowns and roots.

The optimal time for assessment is after snowmelt, ground thaw, and initial green-up, typically late March to early April in Wisconsin. This evaluation aids decisions on maintaining the stand, replanting, or adjusting management practices like nitrogen application.

Begin with a visual inspection, noting green, growing areas versus dead or missing plants. Remember, brown leaves don't always signify winterkill, and green leaves don't guarantee survival. The most reliable method is to dig up plants and examine for new, white roots near the crown, ensuring they are free of dark or soft spots.

When evaluating the stand, count plants per square foot or per foot of row, using a square foot quadrat for accuracy. Aim for 12-15 live plants per square foot or 7-9 plants per foot of row to maintain the crop.

Distinguish between whole plants and tillers during counting, referencing the Winter Wheat Development and Growth Staging Guide. Take multiple random counts across the field for a representative assessment.

Based on the assessment, make informed management decisions. For healthy stands, focus on fertilization and weed control to maximize yield. Wisconsin research recommends spring nitrogen application at green-up, following guidelines from "Nutrient Application Guidelines for Field, Vegetable, and Fruit Crops in Wisconsin (A2809)."

If the stand is unviable, consider replanting with corn or soybeans for optimal growing season use, or chop the wheat for livestock forage.

Timely action based on accurate stand assessment is vital for overall production. A healthy spring stand is the foundation for a successful summer harvest. Therefore, assess your fields and make the best decisions for your farm's success.

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