G99-1389 Cultural Practices to Improve Weed Control in Winter Wheat

Authors

Gail A. Wicks, University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Alex Martin, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Drew J. Lyon, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

1999

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 1999, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

This NebGuide explains the influence of cultural practices on weeds in winter wheat. Precipitation and temperature greatly influence crop and weed growth in the semiarid areas of the central Great Plains. Precipitation in Nebraska varies from 14 to 24 inches where fallow is practiced. The purpose of fallow is to control weeds and, when not cropping a field, to store water and stabilize winter wheat fields. With good prewheat-fallow techniques, sufficient soil moisture is usually available to establish winter wheat. Peak rainfall occurs in May and June during the pollination and grain-filling period of winter wheat. The latter part of June, July, and first part of August is the hottest period. High temperatures may cause stress to the wheat and weeds, reducing weed control if herbicides are applied after harvest.