WHEAT & OATS UPDATE
Management Consideration
Below is a very good photo of the way wheat should look right now.
This crop had 40 lbs N and 30 lbs sulfur (166 pounds of AMS) applied pre-plant. As you can see, it has a very good root system and several tillers per plant. This wheat is perfect for this time of year especially considering the excessive rainfall we have been experiencing in many places.
You will need to come back in late January or early February with the last application of N to total 110-120 lbs (MAX rate on sandy-loam soil) for the year. If your wheat is not growing, then your soil either needs to dry out some or you did not have sufficient N available through your pre-plant application.
We would like to see a minimum of TWO tillers per plant by this point in the season. In terms of N application timing, please remember January is our second wettest month of the year so start planning now so you can get in the field as soon as possible.
In terms of weed control, most wheat/oats are 4 inches tall or taller (two or more tillers) and you need to put out your herbicides now. We really prefer ground applications as good coverage is critical for success. There are a variety of good products available, so we recommend that you check your fields to identify what weed species you have present and then consult your local retailer or extension service for specific product / rate recommendations.
* With GA as an example, a couple of “tried and true” herbicide options would be:
1.) Harmony Extra Total Sol plus MCPA ** (Always add a surfactant)
2.) Express plus MCPA (Always add a surfactant – DO NOT USE THIS ON OATS)
*Information obtained from 2020 Georgia Pest Control Handbook and Intensive Wheat Management in Georgia. As always follow label and dispose of empties properly.
**Personal choice
If you have any questions, please give us a call!
GA Office: 229-734-5466
SC Office: 803-531-1777
Good Growing,
The Mixon Team
