Farms.com Home   News

Upcoming Cold Temperatures and Winter Wheat

Upcoming Cold Temperatures and Winter Wheat

By Laura Lindsey and Ed Lentz et.al

The upcoming forecast of cold temperatures has sparked some concern about damage to the winter wheat crop.

Fortunately, winter wheat is very resistant to cold temperatures during the months of December, January, and February when the plant is dormant. During these months, winter wheat can withstand below freezing temperatures, especially when there is snow cover. In early 2019, Ohio experienced polar vortex temperatures without snow cover. However, no (or minimal) damage was observed in winter wheat (Figure 1).
Polar vortex temperatures
Figure 1. Polar vortex temperatures with no snow cover in early 2019 resulted in survival of winter wheat.
 
Besides wheat’s natural ability to be resistant to cold temperatures, plant breeders have developed wheat varieties that are adapted to Ohio’s environments. Occasionally some companies have tried to push North varieties adapted to the Mid-Atlantic region that may be affected by extreme cold. However, most often wheat that has not survived cold temperatures was planted too late for adequate growth, planted too shallow to protect the crown, or too much water on low spots before the cold temperatures.
 
Source : osu.edu

Trending Video

Dam Removal Project Decreases Water Temperature and Increases Habitat

Video: Dam Removal Project Decreases Water Temperature and Increases Habitat

Located on a tributary of the Kalamazoo River near Allegan, Michigan, the Swan Creek Dam helps manage water flow and provides residents with recreational opportunities such as fishing and kayaking. But this dam is coming down because the Department of Natural Resources wants the river to be colder. Fish biologist Matt Diana explains why it's a necessary step.