Optimizing Planting Date, Seeding Rate, and Row Spacing to Maximize Wheat Yields.

Selecting the appropriate planting date, seeding rate, and row spacing is critical to establishing a wheat crop that will attain its full yield potential. This research will evaluate current recommendations for planting winter wheat in western Nebraska in addition to alternative possibilities. This research will be conducted over multiple years and locations to ensure the correct conclusions and recommendations can be drawn. By understanding the interaction that occurs when planting different wheat varieties at different locations, on different dates, using different seeding rates and row spacing, Nebraska wheat growers will be able to optimize their wheat yields. Research plots will be established in the fall of 2016 and 2017 at several locations across western NE. Wheat stand counts, tillering, and height will be recorded in the fall. After initial green up in the spring, similar measurements will be taken. Prior to harvest, plant height and number of plants per row foot will be recorded. The number of wheat heads per foot will also be recorded. Plots will be harvested and wheat yield, test weight, moisture, and protein will be recorded. Data will be analyzed and used in presentations and publications to NE wheat growers.