When to Plant Winter Wheat in Oklahoma? 5 Important Tips

Winter wheat is a major crop in Oklahoma, with the state being one of the top producers in the country.

The ideal time to plant winter wheat in Oklahoma depends on several factors, including the type of wheat being grown, the intended use (forage or grain-only), and the local climate. Planting too early or too late can result in reduced yields and lower quality wheat.

One of the most important factors in determining the ideal planting date for winter wheat in Oklahoma is the intended use of the crop. For forage production, planting should occur earlier in the fall to allow for maximum growth and development before the onset of winter.

For grain-only production, planting can be delayed until later in the fall to allow for more time for the crop to develop tillers and roots, which can improve yield potential. Additionally, planting too early can increase the risk of disease and pest problems, while planting too late can result in reduced emergence and stand establishment.

Key Takeaways

• The ideal time to plant winter wheat in Oklahoma depends on several factors, including the intended use of the crop, the type of wheat being grown, and local climate conditions.
• For forage production, planting should occur earlier in the fall to allow for maximum growth and development before the onset of winter.
• For grain-only production, planting can be delayed until later in the fall to allow for more time for the crop to develop tillers and roots, which can improve yield potential.

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Understanding Winter Wheat in Oklahoma

Winter wheat is a popular crop in Oklahoma due to its ability to withstand harsh winter conditions. Oklahoma State University (OSU) recommends planting winter wheat in the fall, typically between September 10 and 20 (roughly day 260 in Figure 1), for most of the state.

This represents a trade-off between maximizing forage production and minimizing potential grain yield loss. Grain-only planting should take place at least 2-3 weeks after the ideal planting date.

Dual-purpose wheat is planted for both forage and grain production. It is recommended that dual-purpose wheat be planted in mid-September, while grain-only planting should occur at least 2-3 weeks after dual-purpose planting (i.e., mid-October or approximately day 285).

The ideal planting date for grain-only wheat is later than for dual-purpose wheat to minimize the risk of disease and insect damage.

Planting winter wheat too early can lead to excessive vegetative growth, which can reduce grain yield. On the other hand, planting too late can result in reduced tiller production and smaller grain heads. It is important to find the right balance for optimal yield and quality.

In Oklahoma, winter wheat is typically planted using a drill with a depth of 1-2 inches. The recommended seeding rate for winter wheat is 60-90 pounds per acre, depending on the planting date and variety. OSU recommends planting certified seed to ensure uniformity and quality.

When to Plant Winter Wheat in Oklahoma

Winter wheat is a staple crop in Oklahoma, and planting it at the right time is crucial for a successful harvest. The ideal planting date for winter wheat in Oklahoma is typically mid-September, around day 260 of the year. This is especially true for dual-purpose wheat, which is grown for both grazing and grain production.

Planting winter wheat at the right time is important because it allows the crop to establish a good root system before winter sets in. This helps the plant withstand cold temperatures and other weather extremes that can occur during the winter months.

Additionally, planting at the ideal time can help ensure that the wheat is ready for harvest in the summer or early autumn of the following year.

It is important to note that the ideal planting date for winter wheat can vary depending on a number of factors, including temperature, soil moisture, and the specific variety of wheat being planted. In general, however, mid-September is a good target for most growers in Oklahoma.

If planting for grain-only, it is recommended to wait at least 2-3 weeks after dual-purpose planting, which would be around mid-October or day 285 of the year. This timing allows for the wheat to be planted deeper and at a higher seeding rate, which can help maximize grain yields.

Factors Influencing Planting Date

The planting date for winter wheat in Oklahoma is a critical decision for farmers as it can affect the yield and quality of the crop. Several factors influence the planting date, including soil, pH, soil moisture, temperature, rainfall, weather, and soil pH.

Soil moisture is a crucial factor in determining the planting date for winter wheat. If the soil is too dry, it may not be possible to plant the crop, and the seeds may not germinate.

On the other hand, if the soil is too wet, the seeds may rot, and the crop may not grow correctly. Therefore, farmers must ensure that the soil moisture is optimal before planting the crop.

Soil pH is another factor that can affect the planting date for winter wheat. Wheat grows best in soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. If the soil pH is too low or too high, it can affect the growth and yield of the crop. Farmers should test the soil pH and adjust it if necessary before planting the crop.

Temperature is another critical factor that can influence the planting date for winter wheat. Wheat grows best in cool temperatures, and the optimal temperature range for planting is between 50°F and 65°F. If the temperature is too high or too low, it can affect the growth and yield of the crop.

Rainfall and weather are also essential factors to consider when deciding on the planting date for winter wheat. Farmers should aim to plant the crop before the first frost to ensure that the crop has enough time to grow before winter.

Additionally, farmers should avoid planting the crop during periods of heavy rainfall as it can affect the germination of the seeds.

In conclusion, several factors influence the planting date for winter wheat in Oklahoma. Farmers must consider the soil moisture, soil pH, temperature, rainfall, and weather when deciding on the best time to plant the crop.

Seeding and Germination

Winter wheat is typically sown in Oklahoma between mid-September and mid-October, with the ideal time being around September 20th. Planting earlier than this can increase the risk of Hessian fly infestations, while planting later can lead to reduced forage production and increased risk of winterkill.

Before planting, it is important to prepare the soil properly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. This can be achieved through tillage or other soil preparation methods.

It is also important to control any volunteer wheat, as it can host pests and diseases that can damage the new crop. Volunteer wheat must be completely dead for at least two weeks before planting a new crop.

The recommended seeding rate for winter wheat varies depending on whether it is being grown for forage or grain production. Forage-only or dual-purpose management should plant 1.5-2 times the amount of seed that is recommended for grain-only production.

The recommended seeding rate for grain-only production is typically around 60-90 pounds per acre, depending on the variety and soil conditions.

After planting, the seeds will begin to germinate and emerge from the soil. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days, although this can vary depending on soil temperature and moisture. It is important to ensure that the seeds have access to adequate moisture during this time to ensure good germination and establishment.

In summary, winter wheat should be planted in Oklahoma between mid-September and mid-October, with the ideal time being around September 20th. Proper soil preparation and control of volunteer wheat are important before planting.

The recommended seeding rate varies depending on whether the crop is being grown for forage or grain production. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days, and it is important to ensure that the seeds have access to adequate moisture during this time.

Forage and Grain-Only Production

When it comes to planting winter wheat in Oklahoma, producers have two main options: forage production and grain-only production. Forage production involves planting wheat in the fall and using it as a forage crop for livestock in the winter and early spring.

Grain-only production, on the other hand, involves planting wheat solely for the purpose of harvesting the grain in the summer.

For grain-only enterprises, mid-October is the optimum time for planting wheat in most regions of Oklahoma. Planting winter wheat in November leaves less time for the crop to develop tillers and roots, which could affect yield potential. Grain-only producers should plant at least 120 pounds of seed per acre to achieve a good stand and maximize yield potential.

Producers who are interested in dual-purpose wheat (grain and forage) should plant wheat in mid-September to mid-October. This allows the wheat to establish a good root system and tiller development before going dormant in the winter.

Dual-purpose wheat producers should plant 90 to 120 pounds of seed per acre to achieve a good stand and maximize both forage and grain yield potential.

Fall forage production potential is one of the major considerations in deciding which variety to plant. Producers should choose a variety that has good fall forage potential, as well as good grain yield potential, to maximize their return on investment.

Oklahoma State University conducts variety testing each year to provide producers with the latest information on grain and forage yield potential for different wheat varieties.

It is important to note that planting wheat too early or too late can result in grain yield loss. Producers should consult with their local extension office or wheat specialist to determine the best planting date for their region and production system.

Variety Selection and Emergence

Selecting the right variety of winter wheat is crucial for successful crop emergence. The emergence of winter wheat is dependent on several factors, including the sowing date, soil temperature, planting depth, soil moisture, and the genetics of the variety.

There are several types of winter wheat varieties available in Oklahoma, including spring wheat, perennial wheat, and facultative varieties.

Spring wheat is usually planted in the spring and harvested in the summer, while perennial wheat is planted in the fall and harvested the following year. Facultative varieties can be planted in either the fall or spring, depending on sowing time.

When selecting a winter wheat variety, farmers should consider several factors, including yield potential, disease resistance, and quality characteristics. Oklahoma State University (OSU) recommends selecting a variety based on the following criteria:

• Yield potential: Choose a variety that has a high yield potential for your region.
• Disease resistance: Choose a variety that has resistance to diseases prevalent in your area.
• Quality characteristics: Choose a variety that has the desired quality characteristics for your intended use.

OSU conducts extensive research on winter wheat varieties and provides a Wheat Variety Comparison chart to help farmers select the right variety for their needs.

The emergence of winter wheat is also dependent on planting depth. OSU recommends planting winter wheat at a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches, depending on soil moisture and temperature. Planting too deep can delay emergence, while planting too shallow can result in poor root development.

Risk Management

When planting winter wheat in Oklahoma, it is essential to consider the potential risks and take appropriate measures to manage them. Here are some of the risks associated with planting winter wheat in Oklahoma and how to manage them effectively.

Disease Management

Planting wheat early for use as a dual-purpose crop significantly increases the prevalence of several diseases caused by viruses, fungi, and insect pests compared to planting wheat later for grain-only.

Virus diseases affecting early-planted wheat can lead to yield losses of up to 50%. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid early planting and instead plant around mid-September to reduce the risks from Hessian fly infestations and allow time for good forage growth.

Seed treatments can also help manage diseases and insect pests. For example, fungicide seed treatments can help control seedling diseases such as Pythium and Fusarium, while insecticide seed treatments can control aphids and Hessian flies.

Winter Kill Management

Winter kill is a significant risk associated with planting winter wheat in Oklahoma. Winter kill occurs when the wheat plant is exposed to extreme cold temperatures, which can cause the plant to die. Therefore, it is essential to select a winter wheat variety that is adapted to the local climate and has good winter hardiness.

Drought Management

Drought is another risk associated with planting winter wheat in Oklahoma. Therefore, it is essential to select a winter wheat variety that is drought-tolerant. Additionally, planting wheat into moist soil can help ensure that the crop has enough moisture to get established.

Pest Management

Pests such as mites and aphids can cause significant damage to winter wheat crops in Oklahoma. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the crop regularly for pest infestations and take appropriate measures to manage them. For example, using insecticide sprays can help control aphids, while using miticides can help control mites.

In conclusion, planting winter wheat in Oklahoma comes with its risks. However, by taking appropriate measures to manage these risks, farmers can ensure a successful crop.

Harvesting and Yield

Winter wheat is typically harvested in Oklahoma in late May or early June. The timing of harvest is critical in order to maximize yield and minimize yield loss. When wheat is harvested too early, the yield can be reduced due to underdeveloped grain.

On the other hand, if wheat is harvested too late, the yield can be reduced due to shattering and lodging.

To determine the optimal time for harvest, farmers can use a number of methods, including visual observation of the crop, measuring the moisture content of the grain, and using a combine yield monitor. By monitoring the crop regularly and using these tools, farmers can make informed decisions about when to harvest their wheat.

In terms of yield, Oklahoma farmers typically produce around 40-50 bushels of wheat per acre. However, yields can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including weather, soil quality, and management practices. To maximize yield, farmers should focus on optimizing soil fertility, controlling weeds and pests, and using appropriate planting and harvesting techniques.

While yield loss can occur due to a variety of factors, including disease, pests, and weather, one of the most common causes of yield loss in Oklahoma is lodging. Lodging occurs when the wheat stalks bend or break, typically due to heavy rain or wind.

To minimize lodging and prevent yield loss, farmers can use a number of strategies, including planting wheat varieties that are less prone to lodging, using appropriate planting density, and avoiding over-fertilization.

Overall, by carefully monitoring their crops and using appropriate management practices, Oklahoma farmers can maximize their yields and minimize yield loss when harvesting winter wheat.

Soil Preparation and Fertilizers

Before planting winter wheat in Oklahoma, it is important to prepare the soil properly to ensure optimal growth and yield. Farmers should consider the following factors when preparing the soil:

Tillage

No-till production is a popular method in Oklahoma for planting winter wheat as it helps to conserve moisture and reduce erosion. However, if tillage is necessary, it should be done at least 2-3 weeks before planting to allow the soil to settle and stabilize.

Soil Depth

Winter wheat requires a soil depth of at least 6 inches for optimal growth. Farmers should ensure that the soil is deep enough and free of rocks and other debris that could interfere with root development.

Fertilizers

Proper fertilization is crucial for winter wheat production in Oklahoma. Soil testing is recommended to determine the nutrient needs of the soil. The Oklahoma Soil Fertility Handbook provides valuable information on soil fertility and nutrient management.

Nitrogen is the most important nutrient for winter wheat. It is recommended to apply nitrogen fertilizer in the fall, before planting. The recommended rate of nitrogen varies depending on the soil type and previous crop rotation.

Phosphorus and potassium are also important nutrients for winter wheat, and should be applied according to soil test recommendations.

In addition to traditional fertilizers, farmers can also consider using organic amendments such as compost or manure. These can improve soil structure and fertility, and provide a slow-release source of nutrients.

Overall, proper soil preparation and fertilization are essential for successful winter wheat production in Oklahoma. Farmers should follow recommended practices and consult with local extension agents for guidance.

Pest and Weed Control

Effective pest and weed control is a key factor in maximizing the yield potential of winter wheat in Oklahoma. Insects and weeds can cause significant damage to the crop and reduce the overall yield. Therefore, it is important to use appropriate measures to control them.

Insects

Winter wheat in Oklahoma is susceptible to several insect pests, including Hessian fly and aphids. Hessian fly is a major insect pest that can affect early planted wheat. It lays its eggs on the leaves of the wheat plant, and the larvae feed on the stem, causing the plant to weaken and potentially die.

Aphids are another common insect pest that can cause significant damage to the wheat crop. They suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and reduced yield.

To control these insect pests, farmers can use insecticides. However, it is important to use them judiciously and follow the recommended application rates and timings. Overuse of insecticides can lead to the development of resistance in the insect populations and harm beneficial insects.

Weeds

Weeds can compete with the winter wheat for resources and reduce its yield potential. True cheat is a common weed problem in winter wheat in Oklahoma. It is a winter annual bromegrass that can cause significant yield losses if not controlled. Other common weeds in winter wheat include jointed goatgrass and wild oats.

To control weeds, farmers can use herbicides. However, it is important to use them judiciously and follow the recommended application rates and timings. Overuse of herbicides can lead to the development of resistance in the weed populations and harm beneficial plants.

Integrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest and weed control that involves the use of multiple control methods, including cultural, biological, and chemical control measures. IPM aims to minimize the use of pesticides and promote sustainable pest and weed control practices.

Farmers can use several IPM practices to control pests and weeds in winter wheat. These include crop rotation, planting resistant varieties, using beneficial insects, and using pest and weed monitoring techniques to determine the need for pesticide applications.

Water Management

Water management is a critical aspect of winter wheat planting in Oklahoma. The amount of water available during planting affects the growth and development of the crop. Winter wheat can be grown in both irrigated and dryland fields. However, the water management practices differ based on the type of field.

In irrigated fields, water is readily available, and the crop can be irrigated as needed. The recommended planting date for winter wheat in irrigated fields is mid-September. This allows enough time for the crop to develop tillers and roots, which can help increase yield potential.

During the planting process, it is essential to ensure that the soil is moist enough to promote seed germination.

In dryland fields, water management is critical. The planting date for winter wheat in dryland fields depends on the amount of rainfall received in the region. If the region receives enough rainfall, the recommended planting date is mid-October.

However, if the region is experiencing dry conditions, it is best to delay planting until November. This allows the crop to develop deeper roots, which can help it access moisture from deeper soil layers.

During dry conditions, it is essential to conserve soil moisture. This can be achieved by using conservation tillage practices that minimize soil disturbance, retain crop residues, and improve soil structure. Additionally, farmers can use cover crops to help reduce soil moisture loss and improve soil health.

Grazing and Regrowth

Winter wheat can be used for grazing purposes in Oklahoma. The ideal planting dates for dual-purpose wheat are mid-September, approximately day 260, and the best time to plant dual-purpose wheat is between September 10 and 20. This represents a trade-off between maximizing forage production and minimizing the risk of winterkill.

Seeding rates for early planted wheat are recommended to be higher than later planted wheat at 1.5 to 2 bushels per acre. In no-till with good residue cover, soil temperatures are cooler than clean-till, moisture retention is often better, and there are less problems with soil crusting.

Grazing wheat can be a profitable enterprise for Oklahoma farmers and ranchers. However, it is important to note that overgrazing can lead to reduced yields and poor regrowth.

To avoid this, it is recommended to graze the wheat no lower than 3 to 4 inches. This will allow for regrowth and the potential for multiple grazings throughout the winter months.

It is also important to note that grazing should be avoided during periods of freezing and thawing. This can lead to soil compaction, which can reduce yields and limit root growth. Additionally, grazing should be avoided during periods of wet soil conditions to prevent damage to the soil structure.

Special Considerations for Oklahoma Wheat Producers

Wheat is Oklahoma’s largest cash crop, and winter wheat is the most commonly grown wheat variety in the state. Wheat producers in Oklahoma face unique challenges due to the state’s climate and geography. Here are a few special considerations that Oklahoma wheat producers should keep in mind when planting winter wheat:

Planting Date

The best time to plant dual-purpose wheat in Oklahoma is between September 10 and 20. This represents a trade-off between maximizing forage production and minimizing potential grain yield loss.

Grain-only planting should take place at least 2-3 weeks after the ideal planting date. For example, in north-central Oklahoma, data has shown that planting wheat in mid-September can increase fall forage potential by as much as 500 lb/acre.

Seeding Rate

Seeding rate is another important consideration for Oklahoma wheat producers. In general, the recommended seeding rate is between 60 and 120 lb/acre. However, the optimal seeding rate may vary depending on the planting date, soil type, and other factors.

Soil Fertility

Soil fertility is critical for wheat production in Oklahoma. Wheat requires adequate levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to grow and produce high yields.

Soil testing is an important tool for determining the nutrient needs of wheat crops. In addition to soil testing, wheat producers should also consider using fertilizers that are specifically formulated for wheat.

Disease Management

Disease management is an important aspect of wheat production in Oklahoma. Wheat diseases such as wheat streak mosaic virus, barley yellow dwarf virus, and stripe rust can cause significant yield losses if left untreated

. Wheat producers should be familiar with the symptoms of these diseases and take appropriate measures to prevent their spread.

Climate and Geography

Oklahoma’s climate and geography can also impact wheat production. The western part of the state, including the Panhandle, is more arid than the eastern part of the state. This can make it more difficult to grow wheat in these areas.

Additionally, wheat producers in northern Oklahoma may face colder temperatures and more severe winter weather than those in the southern part of the state. Understanding these regional differences is important for successful wheat production in Oklahoma.

Legal and Commercial Aspects

When it comes to planting winter wheat in Oklahoma, it is important to be aware of the legal and commercial aspects of the crop. Farmers who plan to grow wheat commercially should be aware of regulations regarding the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.

They should also be familiar with the state’s seed certification program, which ensures that seed used for planting is of high quality and disease-free.

It is important to note that it is illegal to grow wheat at home in Oklahoma without a permit. This is because wheat is a regulated crop, and the state wants to ensure that wheat grown for commercial purposes meets certain standards. Farmers who violate this regulation could face fines or other penalties.

In addition to these legal considerations, farmers should also be aware of the commercial aspects of growing winter wheat in Oklahoma. This includes understanding market demand, pricing trends, and the cost of production.

Farmers should also be aware of the various marketing and distribution channels available to them, such as grain elevators, cooperatives, and direct-to-consumer sales.

Overall, farmers who plan to grow winter wheat in Oklahoma should be knowledgeable about the legal and commercial aspects of the crop. By understanding these factors, they can make informed decisions that will help them succeed in the competitive world of commercial agriculture.

Wheat as Wildlife Food Plots

Winter wheat can be an excellent choice for planting in wildlife food plots, providing a valuable food source for birds and turkeys. When planning a food plot, it’s important to consider the timing of planting to ensure the best possible growth and yield.

According to Oklahoma State University, the best time to plant dual-purpose wheat in Oklahoma is between September 10 and 20. This timing represents a trade-off between maximizing forage production and minimizing potential grain yield loss.

For grain-only planting, it’s recommended to wait at least 2-3 weeks after the ideal planting date.

When planting wheat for wildlife food plots, it’s important to keep in mind the seed-to-soil contact. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 to 1½ inches, and broadcasting works well for this plant variety, too. The seeds are large, so it’s important to accommodate for the large size when drilling.

In terms of seeding rate, broadcasting at a rate of approximately 100 pounds per acre is recommended. It’s also important to ensure that the soil is well-prepared before planting, with a good, quality seed bed. Discing the soil can help achieve this.

Winter wheat can be an excellent choice for wildlife food plots, providing a valuable source of forage for birds and turkeys. By planting at the right time and ensuring good seed-to-soil contact, wildlife enthusiasts can help support local wildlife populations and enjoy the benefits of a successful food plot.

Dust In and High Temperature Germination Sensitivity

When planting winter wheat in Oklahoma, farmers need to be aware of the potential for dust to affect the germination process. Dust can interfere with seed-to-soil contact, which is essential for successful germination.

To minimize the impact of dust, farmers should prepare their fields properly before planting. This includes tilling the soil to create a smooth, level surface and removing any debris or rocks that could interfere with seed placement.

In addition to dust, high temperatures can also affect the germination of winter wheat. Wheat can germinate in soil temperatures from 40 F to 99 F, but temperatures from 54 F to 77 F are considered optimal. Soil temperatures in western Oklahoma frequently exceed 80 F well into the fall.

Soil temperatures at Altus, for example, typically exceed 85 F until mid-September and frequently do not fall below 80 F until October. This can be problematic for winter wheat, as high temperatures can cause seed dormancy or even death.

To mitigate the effects of high temperatures, farmers should consider planting winter wheat earlier in the season. Planting earlier can help ensure that the wheat has time to establish before temperatures become too hot.

Additionally, farmers can choose wheat varieties that are more tolerant of high temperatures. These varieties are typically bred to have a lower temperature threshold for germination and can still sprout in soil temperatures above 80 F.

Green Bridge and Mites

When planting winter wheat in Oklahoma, it is important to be aware of the concept of a “green bridge” and the potential for mite infestations.

A green bridge is a term used to describe the period of time when a crop residue or volunteer wheat is left in the field between two growing seasons. During this time, pests such as mites, aphids, and viruses can survive on the old crop and then move onto the new crop when it is planted.

Volunteer wheat, in particular, can act as a green bridge for pests such as the wheat curl mite, which can transmit diseases like wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) and Triticum mosaic virus (TrMV) to the new crop.

Mites are a common pest in small grains like wheat, and they can cause significant damage to the crop. There are several types of mites that can infest wheat, including the brown wheat mite, the winter grain mite, and the wheat curl mite. These mites can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant, which can reduce yield and quality.

To prevent mite infestations and reduce the risk of a green bridge, it is important to practice good crop management techniques. This can include using herbicides or tillage to kill volunteer wheat before planting a new crop, rotating crops to disrupt the pest life cycle, and monitoring the crop for signs of mite infestations. In some cases, insecticides may be necessary to control mite populations.

Frequently Asked Questions