As the wheat harvesting season continues in Kansas, the focus is already shifting to the next wheat growing season. Kansas State University has released the Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023, a valuable resource to assist wheat producers in making informed decisions about selecting the most suitable wheat varieties for their farms.
The comprehensive guide offers detailed ratings for various agronomic characteristics, such as maturity, height, drought tolerance, and straw strength. It also assesses the resistance of each variety to different diseases, providing valuable insights based on field and greenhouse tests conducted by both public and private wheat researchers.
The publication not only highlights the characteristics of each wheat variety but also provides an individual analysis of pedigree, geographic adaptability, strengths, and weaknesses. It offers recommendations on how producers can use these ratings to reduce production problems and maximize yields. This includes valuable information on each variety's potential performance across different geographic regions and soil types.
To effectively utilize the variety ratings, wheat producers should consider several factors -
- First, they must evaluate the adaptability of each variety to their specific geographic area, considering Kansas' diverse climatic conditions. Certain varieties may perform well across the state, while others may be better suited for specific regions.
- Producers should prioritize disease resistance in their selection process, as different regions may face varying disease pressures. Genetic resistance to insects and diseases can significantly reduce the risk of severe disease problems, making it crucial for producers to be aware of the resistance and susceptibility of the varieties they choose.
- Lastly, the guide also provides information on herbicide-resistant varieties and the Clearfield or CoAXium production systems, offering guidance on the best choices for grass-controlling herbicides.
Wheat Rx, a partnership between Kansas Wheat and K-State Research and Extension, shares the latest research recommendations with Kansas wheat farmers. Publications like the wheat variety selection guide are funded in part by wheat farmers through the Kansas Wheat check-off, aiming to address essential aspects for successful hard winter wheat crops.
By using the Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023, wheat growers can enhance their decision-making process and optimize their wheat production for the upcoming season.
The guide, along with other valuable resources, can be found at kswheat.com/wheatrx.
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Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat