Tips for late seeding winter wheat to maximize yield

By Scout Nelson

Sometimes machinery breakdowns or bad weather make it impossible to seed winter wheat at the best time of year. But by adhering to important management guidelines, growers can still produce high yields even with delayed seeding.

Later-seeded winter wheat can occasionally perform better than early-seeded wheat, particularly in situations where early sowing causes insect and disease issues.

When sowing late, utilize shorter row spacings (five to eight inches) rather than broader spacings to increase your chances of success. To enhance plant density, try seeding twice in perpendicular passes if you're using a broader seeder—such as a 15-inch seeder.

Additionally, increasing the seeding rate is recommended. For dryland wheat, increase the rate by 10-15 pounds per week after the recommended seeding date, with a maximum of 120 pounds per acre. For irrigated wheat, increase the seeding rate by 15-20 pounds per week to a maximum of 180 pounds per acre.

Applying phosphorus with the seed can also enhance yield, particularly when seeding late. If soil tests don’t indicate phosphorus needs, adding 20 pounds of phosphorus can still be beneficial. Mixing fertilizer like 11-52-0 directly with winter wheat seed can be a practical approach but ensure good mixing to avoid equipment wear.

Lastly, using certified treated seed helps protect against disease and increases the chances of successful germination, especially with late seeding. Proper seed treatment ensures seeds are well-coated and protected, improving overall crop outcomes.

By adjusting seeding techniques and using these strategies, late-seeded winter wheat can still thrive and produce high yields.

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