Robert Klein - Western Nebraska Crops Specialist

Robert Klein

faculty, emeriti

Emeritus Extension Professor Nebraska Extension University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Work

402 W State Farm Rd North Platte NE 69101-7751

Work 308-696-6705 On campus, dial 7-6705

robert.klein@unl.edu

vCard QR Code

Emeritus Professor and Extension Cropping Systems Specialist, 2019

Faculty Bio

How Winter Wheat Seeding Date Can Have a Major Effect on Yields

September 1, 2017

The recommended seeding dates for Nebraska's winter wheat vary substantially from one end of the state to the other — from September 1 in the extreme northwest to October 1 in the southeast tip — and have been proven and verified through years of research and farmer experience.

Recap of 2017 Western Nebraska Wheat Crop and Implications for 2018

August 31, 2017

Some growers in western Nebraska had their best winter wheat yields ever in 2017 while others had some of their lowest yields. Moisture availability and disease were among the factors. See breakdowns by area.

Figure 1. At UNL’s Henry J. Stumpf International Wheat Center near Brule, studies are underway comparing winter wheat seeded at the optimal date (left) and wheat seeded late. (Photo by Bob Klein) — Figure 1. At UNL’s Henry J. Stumpf International Wheat Center near Brule, studies are underway comparing winter wheat seeded at the optimal date (left) and a later date. (Photo by Bob Klein)

Wheat Seeding Delay? Here’s How to Compensate

August 30, 2017

Even when you plan to seed winter wheat at the optimum time, weather, equipment breakdown, or other problems may prevent it. If you're in this situation, increasing your seeding rate, using narrow row spacing, and applying other practices described here can help you achieve a successful wheat stand despite the challenges.

Now in its third year of wheat research and variety trials, the Henry J. Stumpf International Wheat Center near Grant conducts research for rainfed production in western Nebraska.

Wheat Update from the Henry J. Stumpf International Wheat Center

August 29, 2017

Now in its third year of wheat research and variety trials, the Henry J. Stumpf International Wheat Center near Grant conducts research on rainfed production in western Nebraska. While the 2017 trial was badly damaged by hail, this recap looks at yield trends from all three years.

Figure 1. Dicamba injury to 40 acres of soybean near Geneva due to volatility/temperature inversion. (Photo by Amit Jhala)

Tell Us about Your Dicamba Use and Suspected Injury in Soybean

August 18, 2017

Nebraska Extension educators and specialists would like to hear from growers and agribusiness about their experiences with dicamba this season. Information can be shared via an online survey or by contacting them directly with the email provided.

Estimating the Full Value of Crop Residue

August 11, 2017

If you're considering cutting drought-stressed corn or sorghum for silage, you might want to take a second look at its nutrient value to the next crop if left in the field.

Corn stubble with little residue — Figure 1. After the corn was cut for silage, little plant material remained in this southwest Nebraska field to protect the soil from wind or water erosion or to capture snow moisture. The corn had been planted in a field with little wheat residue.

Should You Hay or Cut Silage from Drought-Damaged Corn Fields

July 28, 2017

Drought conditions across much of Nebraska will limit grain yields in dryland corn this year, leading growers to look at other options for harvesting value from these fields. In some cases, harvesting this plant material may contribute to nutrient and water removal from the soil and may not be the best solution for your rotation or cropping system.

Figure 1. Red Willow County winter wheat variety plot.

Post-Harvest Weed Control in Winter Wheat

July 14, 2017

A strategy combining well-timed herbicide applications, split treatments, and effective cultural practices is key to managing weeds in wheat to reduce soil moisture loss and the weed seed bank. This story addresses what to consider as well as particular weed challenges in wheat.