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FAQs
Over the years many producers have tended to ask similar questions about winter wheat. Here is a compilation of the most frequently asked questions. As new questions arise the FAQ section will be updated so that you are in the know.
Q. How deep should I seed winter wheat?
A. Winter wheat should be seeded " to 1" deep. Seeding shallow allows for quick germination and crop establishment in the fall. Even under dry conditions it is best to seed shallow, rather than seed deeper into moisture. For more information about optimal crop establishment, view Ducks Unlimited Canada′s Agronomics Factsheet.
Q. When should I seed my winter wheat?
A. It is critical to target a seeding date appropriate for your area. Winter wheat plants that have a well established crown root are more winter hardy. Producers in the Northern Prairies need to seed earlier on account of the colder fall temperatures. A target date of August 15 to 20 is ideal. Central locations should seed between August 25 and September 5. Producers in the Southern Prairies should target the first two weeks of September.
Q. I am a direct seeder. What type of stubble should I seed my winter wheat into?
A. Winter wheat should be direct seeded into standing stubble. The stubble catches snow and protects the crop over the coldest winter months. Canola or mustard stubble is a good choice, given the reduced trash and tall stems. Cereal stubble provides a more abundant number of stems, and can provide excellent cover. Producers should be aware of the disease effects associated with seeding winter wheat into cereal stubble. Pea stubble is not recommended. The reduced number of stems and their brittle nature provides the winter wheat crop with little protection over the winter. To learn more about selecting adequate stubble, view Ducks Unlimited Canada′s Agronomics Factsheet.
Q. What are the fertility requirements of winter wheat?
A. Fertility is an important component of any crop production system. Since winter wheat can yield 15 to 30% more than spring wheat, it is important to fertilize the crop accordingly. Consider your target yield and soil test results when developing a fertilizer plan for your winter wheat. Additional information about application timing, rate and requirements can be found in Ducks Unlimited Canada′s Fertility Factsheet.
Q. What do I need to know about weed control in my winter wheat crop?
A. Given the competitive nature of winter wheat, the need for herbicide products may be reduced, compared to spring cereals. Often wild oat control is not required and broadleaf weeds may be addressed with a product, such as 2,4-D. Managing weeds in the preceding crop and doing a pre-seed burn off help considerably to reduce the requirement for additional in-crop herbicide applications. More information about weed control is available in Ducks Unlimited Canada′s Weed Control Factsheet.
Q. How should I assess my crop for winter kill?
A. In early spring, a winter wheat crop may "appear" to be winter killed, because of browned leaf tips and a lack of growth. However, it is important to give the crop adequate time to recover from the winter. As a general rule, decisions about the fate of winter wheat crop should be deferred until most of the spring seeding is complete. This will allow the winter wheat crop adequate time to resume growing. Surviving plants will have firm white crown tissue and the presence of new roots. For tips on assessing your crop in the spring, and managing problem areas, check out Ducks Unlimited Canada′s Spring Assessment Production Tool.
