By Scout Nelson
Drought conditions continue to impact Kansas wheat as spring progresses, with crop health declining across the state. Despite light showers in parts of Kansas overall, April rainfall has been insufficient to support the growing crop.
The USDA’s April 14 Crop Progress and Condition report shows winter wheat rated 43% good to excellent, a drop from 51% the week prior. Top-soil and subsoil moisture levels also declined.
The Kansas Mesonet reports most regions, especially in central and western Kansas, have received very limited rainfall—just 0.10 inches over the past two weeks. In several areas, it has been around 150 days since any significant moisture fell.
Soil conditions have deteriorated, with visible surface cracks and wheat showing signs of stress. Plants are yellowing, especially where past soil compaction or fieldwork occurred in recent years.
“We started seeing issues two to three weeks ago, but the wheat has looked progressively worse as we’ve missed all of the rain,” one producer shared.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 84% of Kansas is now abnormally dry, with 55% in moderate drought. That’s up significantly from last year.
Currently, 46% of the crop has joined, on track with last year but ahead of the five-year average. Agronomists note that the wheat is now forming its stems and will soon begin kernel development—making moisture needs more critical.
Experts warn that yellow leaves may indicate drought stress or nitrogen deficiency, while mottling could signal disease such as Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus.
“We always joke that wheat has nine lives,” said a K-State agronomist. “Wheat is a pretty dynamic plant in response to stress.” Moisture in the coming weeks will be crucial.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Kansas, Weather