University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

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Figure 1. To test for the presence of jointed goatgrass seed in wheat seed, place a small sample of wheat seed in a container and add water. Jointed goatgrass seed will float, while wheat seed will fall to the bottom. (IANR photo by Brett Hampton)

September 8, 2006

Plant clean wheat seed; watach for jointed goatgrass seed

Jointed goatgrass spikelets are often found in fall-sown small grain seeds, especially winter wheat. It is almost impossible to separate all jointed goatgrass spikelets from winter wheat seeds; therefore, growers should be knowledgeable about their winter wheat seed source or buy only certified seed. When having wheat seed cleaned, look for cleaners who can use multiple cleaning methods including indent separators and gravity tables.

Jointed goatgrass spikelets can be identified in wheat grain or seed samples by placing the sample into a pail or plastic bag, adding water, and stirring or shaking gently. The wheat grain will sink and the jointed goatgrass spikelets will float (Figure 1).

For more information on jointed goatgrass see the NebGuide, Controlling Jointed Goatgrass (G1252).

Drew Lyon
Extension Dryland Cropping Systems Specialist
Panhandle REC, Scottsbluff

Copyright 2006 by the University of Nebraska Board of Regents. All rights reserved.

Published by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources Cooperating with the counties and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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