The 2018 wheat crop has had it challenges to say the least. Much of the planting was late because it was too wet to get into the fields last fall. Then, that was the last measurable moisture the crop had until April. A mid-April hard freeze has also impacted some of the fields while the drought and cold spring has left the plants short and behind in development. Wheat is hardy though, and if favorable weather happens, the crop may still be close to average come harvest.
The Cottonwood District has two wheat demonstration plots out this year, one in each county. Dr. Lucas Haag, KSRE North East Area Agronomist will be on hand to talk about the individual varieties which were planted, and how they are producing in each area. He will also discuss the different situations and stressors for this year. Eric DeWolf, KRSE Plant Pathologist will also be on hand to discuss what disease pressures are present and what to keep a lookout for coming into harvest. At the Ellis County Plot, Dr. J.P. Michaud KSRE NW area Entomologist will also be present to discuss insect populations and answer any questions that you may have.
The first plot tour will be at 6 p.m. on May 24 in Barton County. This year’s plot cooperator is Terry Reif. Directions to the field are: from Hoisington: go N. on blacktop Susank Rd. at Susank go 4 miles E. on the blacktop, turn N. onto NE40 Ave. go 1-mile N. to NE 200 Rd., turn E on 200 and go about 3/8 mile.
After plot tour, everyone is invited to the Beaver Volunteer Fire Department located at 588 1st Ave in Beaver. Please call 620-793-1910 to RSVP for the meal following so that we have enough food for everyone.
The second plot tour will be at 6 p.m. on May 31 on L & M Farming’s ground. Directions from I-70: take the Victoria exit 168 go 2.5 miles north on Cathedral Ave./HWY. 255. Turn west onto Fairground Rd and go 1.5 miles. From Catharine: go ½ east and turn south onto 310, go 1 mile and turn east onto Fairground Rd and go 1.5 miles. A meal and refreshments will immediately follow the field day in Victoria at the city park, beside the swimming pool on Iron Street. All interested people are invited to attend. No RSVP necessary.
Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent for Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension. Contact her by email at aboor@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.
