By Scout Nelson
Nebraska wheat growers can now access the 2025 wheat variety trial results through the Crop Variety and Hybrid Testing Program’s online platform. These trials provide unbiased, research-based data to help with crop planning and variety selection. Results will continue to be updated as multi-location and multi-year summaries are finalized.
Despite a dry fall and spring, along with wheat streak mosaic virus pressure, several Panhandle trial sites exceeded expectations. The inclusion of a no-cost trial site in southern Cheyenne County offered growers in that area an additional comparison point. In the west-central region, yields were reasonable considering the challenging season, while eastern Nebraska reported lower performance due to dry conditions and uneven crop emergence.
The Crop Performance Testing (CPT) Program relies on the support of Nebraska growers who host plots each year. Their contributions allow for the collection of valuable statewide data to aid in making informed planting decisions.
Enrollment for the 2026 variety trials is now open to both growers and seed companies. The per-site entry fee is $235, with locations mirroring those used in 2025. While field positions may shift slightly depending on site availability, all entries are tested at each location within the designated region. Entry forms are due by Friday, August 15, and seed deliveries must arrive by Friday, August 22.
The CPT team will also continue the winter annual forage trial in Cheyenne County, which includes winter triticale, hybrid rye, and winter wheat. This trial is priced at $1,000 per entry and involves targeted harvests at the boot/heading and milk stages. Continuation depends on adequate participation.
Field tours for the 2026 wheat varieties are planned for June in several Nebraska counties, with exact dates to be announced in spring.
For more details or to request entry forms, contact the UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center at 308-254-3918.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Wheat