University of Nebraska-Lincoln Offers Suggested Winter Wheat Seeding Dates for Highest Yields

Winter wheat planting dates across Nebraska can have a significant impact on yields, according to UNL crop specialists.
Winter wheat planting dates across Nebraska can have a significant impact on yields, according to UNL crop specialists.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln has offered tips for Nebraska winter wheat producers on seeding dates and how to increase their potential for higher yields.

In Nebraska, the recommended seeding dates can vary anywhere from Sept. 1 to Oct. 1. This year, a starting point of Sept. 10 for 4,000 feet elevation is being recommended, specifically for growers in the panhandle. For the rest of the state, Sept. 25 has been named the ideal seeding date.

In general, elevation plays a role in the ideal seeding dates for growers. One day should be added for each 100-foot decrease and subtracted for each 100-foot increase in elevation, for instance.

University experts note that the date of seeding greatly impacts the development of tillers in winter wheat. Those who choose to seed during the optimal dates will enable their wheat to form sufficient, but not excessive tillers. Late seeding, on the other hand, may give plants little time to develop tillers. Early seeding can potentially create too many fall tillers.

Last year, producers reported “excellent” winter wheat yields across Nebraska. Moist soil at seeding helped farmers, as well as a winter without harsh conditions. Growing and filling conditions also contributed to the exceptionally high yields. University experts claim that in the long term, adhering to suggested seeding dates will give producers the greatest chance of achieving a high yield when it comes time to bring harvesting equipment into the fields.