The latest Extension information on wheat production and management practices from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Crop Growth and Development
Understanding plant development can be helpful for making management decisions. The optimum timing of fertilizer, irrigation, herbicide, insecticide, and fungicide applications are best determined by crop growth stage rather than calendar date.
The impact of various crop stresses such as frost, heat, drought, disease, insect damage, or weed competition can be more accurately predicted with a clear understanding of the relationships between crop growth stage and plant response to stress.
Major growth stages:
- Germination
- Seedling
- Tillering
- Stem elongation (jointing)
- Booting
- Heading
- Flowering (anthesis)
- Milk
- Dough
- Ripening
Additional Resources
- Estimating Winter Wheat Grain Yields (Nebraska Extension)
- Freeze Injury to Nebraska Wheat
- Wheat Kernel Damage (Source: Oklahoma State University)
- Plant Development--Growing Degree Days (Source: USDA)
- Tillering Patterns and Wheat Plant Stresses (Source: USDA)
Related Articles
The Moves to Make for Late-seeded Winter Wheat
September 11, 2024
Late-seeded winter wheat can yield higher than early-seeded crops, partly due to reduced disease and insect issues. This article provides tips for increasing seeding success if weather or harvest has caused delays.
USDA NASS to Collect 2024 Small Grain Production and Stocks Data
August 23, 2024
The results of the small grains survey are used by numerous agencies within the agricultural industry to make a wide range of decisions that benefit producers.
Annual Forage Options Following Irrigated Winter Wheat
August 15, 2024
Extension insights on forages to plant after wheat harvest in western Nebraska, where low rainfall and cool-season pasture decline is an obstacle for producers needing fall forage.
USDA Forecasts U.S. Corn Production Down, Soybean Production Up from 2023
August 14, 2024
Nationwide, corn production is down by 1% from 2023, but soybean growers are expected to have a record-setting season, with the current yield forecast at 4.59 billion bushels.
Common Bunt Infection in Winter Wheat
August 14, 2024
Common bunt in winter wheat can be avoided by using certified seed, treating seeds with fungicide, and practicing crop rotation and field sanitation. These strategies are crucial to avoid infection and maintain healthy, productive wheat crops.