It’s getting late for spring wheat planting in northern Minnesota. University of Minnesota Extension Small Grains Agronomist Jochum Wiersma says the yield potential is declining a half a bushel-to-one bushel per day if wheat is planted past the recommended planting date. “On average, we’re walking backwards every single day from now on.” To offset yield losses, farmers can increase seeding rates. Wiersma recommends increasing one plant per square foot per each week delayed. On the positive side, Wiersma says if wheat prices stay at current levels or improve, this can also help offset yield losses. Good conditions during grain fill can also make up for the late start.
