By Blake Jackson
Wheat fields in southern Pennsylvania are beginning to reach the Feekes 6 growth stage, commonly referred to as jointing.
According to Daniela Carrijo, Grain Production Extension Specialist at Penn State Extension, this phase signals the transition from tillering to stem elongation.
It is identified by the appearance of the first node at the base of the shoot, marking an important point in crop development and management.
This stage also represents the first opportunity for applying plant growth regulators (PGRs), such as Palisade EC (trinexapac-ethyl). These products are used in small grain production to reduce plant height and lower the risk of lodging, which can occur when plants are knocked over by wind or heavy rain.
Research conducted in Centre County during the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 growing seasons examined the effects of Palisade EC on wheat.
Results showed that applying the product at a rate of 14 ounces per acre reduced plant height by approximately 3% to 10%, depending on environmental conditions and application methods. These findings are consistent with other studies that have observed similar reductions in height.
In terms of yield, the application of Palisade EC does not significantly affect grain production when lodging is not present. This means the product can be a useful preventative tool in situations where lodging risk is high.
However, if lodging does not occur, the application may not provide a clear economic benefit, making it important for growers to assess field conditions and weather risks before deciding.
Another factor to consider is straw production. While grain yield remained stable, the studies indicated that straw yield could decline by up to 8% in some cases.
This reduction is due to shorter stems without an increase in thickness, leading to less overall biomass an important consideration for producers who depend on straw for livestock bedding or other uses.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-milos-cirkovic
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Wheat