Wheat conditions

Oklahoma panhandle –

Wheat is just starting to head out with much better soil moisture conditions now.  There is a potential for a better than average crop. Freezes that occurred in late March have had very little impact on yield potential.  At the current time, foliar disease pressure is nonexistent.  That will likely change over the next couple of weeks, especially if we stay cool and wet.  It makes sense to delay the decision on the use of fungicides for at least another week.  There is quite a bit of Barley Yellow Dwarf starting to show up over the past few weeks.   Barley Yellow Dwarf is very common in numerous fields, but the area in these fields is quiet small.  This should not have a huge impart on yields.  There are lower than normal incidence of Wheat Streak Mosaic.  Most of the insect problems are behind us now, as a high percentage of fields have already been sprayed for Russian Wheat Aphids and Green Bugs.   Low numbers of both of these pests are moving back into the wheat now.  This late in the season, predators should be able to handle these reinfestations. 

Southwest Kansas-

Wheat is still a week away from heading out in the Garden City area.  Wheat yield prospects are above average as well.  Recent rain fall should carry the crop to pollination and beyond but will still need some timely rains to achieve the potential.  Like the panhandle of Oklahoma, freeze injury is not much of a factor. 

Powdery Mildew Disease is common in many fields with susceptible varieties like Jagaline.  There is absolutely no evidence of Stripe Rust or Leave Rust yet.  That doesn’t mean we’re home free, it just means fungicide applications if needed, will be applied later into the growing season.  The decision needs to be based on cost of the fungicide, yield potential of the wheat, price of the wheat and disease resistant traits of the variety. 

 

Row Crop Conditions-

Southwest Kansas and Oklahoma Panhandle

Obviously off to a slow start with the 2009 corn crop.  Based on estimates today, would say no more than 50% of the crop is in.  We are approaching cut off dates for full season hybrids.  (118 days plus).  Would probably need to switch to something shorter if the corn does not go in by May 15th.   Not seeing any significant disease or insect problems.    

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