Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist, Oklahoma State University
The Oklahoma wheat harvest was delayed in many areas this year due to frequent rainfall events. I have received several questions about sprouted wheat seeds and potential issues with post-harvest dormancy, especially when using that grain for seed this fall. So, I would like to share a few considerations.
Pre-harvest sprouting
Pre-harvest sprouting refers to wheat grains that begin to germinate while still on the wheat head, before harvest. Once wheat reaches physiological maturity, it can begin to germinate if exposed to ideal moisture and warm temperatures for just a few days. That is what happened in some locations in northcentral OK this season.
The risk of sprouting depends on both genetics and environmental conditions. Wheat varieties differ in their resistance to sprouting (i.e., some are more prone to sprouting than others).
Can I use sprout-damaged wheat for seed?
It depends, especially on the level of sprouting.
If wheat kernels appear swollen or with a cracked seed coat, but with no visible root or shoot emerging from the seed, they might still be viable to be used as seed. In this case, run a germination test to assess seed quality before planting.
However, if you see visible roots or a developing coleoptile emerging from the seed (see Picture 1), those seeds should not be used. They will likely have poor viability and may fail to emerge.
Picture 1. Pre-harvest sprouted wheat damage, showing grain with split seed coat and radicle starting to become visible. The photo was taken on June 10, 2022 by Glen Calvert, former Extension Ag Educator at Washita County.
Will pre-harvest sprouting damage affect wheat quality?
Yes. As wheat starts to sprout (i.e., begins to germinate), it produces alpha-amylase and other enzymes that break down starch and protein in the grain. Increased enzyme activity can reduce flour and baking quality, affecting dough strength, loaf volume, and crumb structure. The more severe the sprouting, the greater the loss in marketability and end-use quality.
Post-harvest seed dormancy
Since harvest was late this year, will post-harvest dormancy affect planting this fall?
It is possible. Wheat seed is considered dormant when it fails to germinate even under favorable conditions or take so long that emergence is delayed, thus causing poor stands. Dormancy can be worsened when planting in warm soil (above 70F), which is typical during early sowing of graze-out or dual-purpose systems in Oklahoma.
Some level of seed dormancy is beneficial as it helps prevent pre-harvest sprouting as previously discussed. Dormancy is highest right before harvest and gradually decreases over time. But the rate at which it decreases depends on genetics and several other factors, including:
Seed coat properties: Inhibitory compounds in the seed coat of hard red winter wheat varieties can extend post-harvest dormancy.
Storage conditions: Seed stored at extreme temperatures (hot or cold) tend to lose dormancy faster than those stored at ambient air temperatures. This is why placing seed samples in a refrigerator for a day or two before conducting germination tests is a common practice.
Grain-fill environment: Cooler and wetter conditions during grain fill result in stronger dormancy than hot and dry conditions during this period. This means that the same wheat variety may exhibit different germination behavior depending on the environment in which the seed was produced.
For most hard red winter wheat varieties, dormancy naturally dissipates by October. However, early sowing shortens the interval between harvest and planting, which increases the risk of planting dormant seed, leading to delayed emergence and poor stands.
Dormancy can be mistaken by other problems like dead or damaged seeds. Running a germination test can help to identify what is going on.
What to check before planting saved seed:
Germination Test
Even if the grain didn’t visibly sprout in the head, it may have undergone internal changes (like enzyme activity) that reduce vigor. A standard germination test is the best way to assess viability.
Prolonged wet conditions during grain filling and harvest can lead to seed-borne fungal diseases. These can reduce seed quality and emergence. Consider using a fungicide seed treatment to reduce this risk.
3. Test weight and shrunken kernels
Low test weight and shriveled seeds often indicate poor grain fill. These seeds might have reduced starch reserves, which weakens seedling growth.
Aim for test weight above 58 lb/bu for seed use.
Summary
Delayed harvest increases the risk of pre-harvest sprouting.
Both can impact seed viability and plant emergence this fall.
Before using your own grain as seed, be sure to run a germination test and assess overall seed quality.
Resources:
If you have questions about testing, seed treatment, or variety selection, feel free to reach out to your local Extension office or to me.
Oklahoma wheat harvest has been moving at a fast pace the last two days. Several producers and custom harvesters wrapping up in Southwest, Oklahoma. Great strides also have been made in central and far western regions of the state. Producers are cutting in all regions even in the North Central, I-35 corridor on the Oklahoma/Kansas line. (Producers continue to battle mud from heavy rains in Northern, Oklahoma from Kremlin to the Blackwell/Ponca City, Braman region. Mud is also giving producers challenges in the Afton and Miami area.) It should be noted several locations from all central regions to most northern regions have several fields that are partially harvested with producers and harvesters planning to come back for the wetter lower lying areas. Rain has also hindered progress on some of the dryland wheat areas in the Panhandle that was received on Monday evening. **Test weights across the state have dropped due to all the heavy rains last week, but statewide we are still looking at a 59 lb. per bushel average despite some lower test weights reported based on location and variety. Yields across the state are being reported from the mid 30’s to mid 50’s for the most part. Producers with management intensive plans have been reporting yields in the mid 60’s to low 80’s. Protein across the state averaging 11.1%. The Oklahoma Wheat Commission is calling harvest 55% completed as of today. The next harvest report will be published on June 30, 2025.
**It should be noted in locations between Wichita Falls, Texas, and Lawton, Oklahoma, many acres were flooded and those fields will never be harvested. The same statement applies to several locations around the Tonkawa, Blackwell, Ponca City region. It is predicted in these areas it will impact production by a 1/3 of what is normally taken in at these locations. Weeds also a bigger issue in these fields as producers have not been able to get to them in time to harvest.
Southwest and Western Oklahoma-
Walters/Temple/Ahpeatone/Ryan/Hulen–Harvest has made great progress in this region over the past 5 days. Despite lower test weights due to rains last week, these locations looking at 58 lb. to 59lb. averages for the region. Yields are ranging all over the board from 20 bushels per acre to 40 bushels per acre, with some higher yields noted on earlier cuttings. Protein averaging 11.9%. It should be noted this region will take in 1/3 less than the five year average due to excessive flooding on wheat that will never be harvested.This region is 95% harvested.
Carter/Brinkman/Altus/Lone Wolf– Test weights have dropped some but this region still looking at 59 lbs. per bushel average test weight for the entire harvest. Yields being reported in the mid 30’s to mid 40’s, with some intensively managed wheat reported to be making in the low 50’s to mid 60’s. Proteins averaging 11.2%. These regions are 97% harvested.
Hobart- This area has not moved along as fast due to heavier rains at times earlier in the season. Test weights averaging 59 lbs. per bushel for the location. Yields ranging in the mid 30’s to mid 50’s with some management intensive wheat making in the high 70’s to low 80’s. Protein is averaging 11.2%.This region reported to be 90% harvested.
Gotebo-This area has not moved along as fast due to heavier rains at times. Test weights averaging 58 lbs. per bushel. Yields ranging from mid 30’s to mid 50’s. Protein is averaging 11.2%.This region is 60% harvested.
Sentinel/Rocky-Producers have made great progress in these regions. Test weights for the entire region averaging 59 lbs. per bushel. Early yields reported in the mid 30’s to mid 40’s on heavily grazed wheat. As producers get further into harvest the yields have gotten better in the mid 40’s to low 50’s in some instances. Protein averaging 11.8%. The Sentinel region is 95% harvested, the Rocky region has received more rain and is 85% completed.
Central Oklahoma
Greenfield-Harvest in this region has made great progress. Test weights ranging from 58.5 lbs. to 62 lbs. per bushel depending on variety and location. Yields being reported from the mid 40’s to mid 60’s, with even some higher yields on management intensive wheat. Protein ranging from 10.7% to 11.1%.This area being reported as 75 percent harvested.
Okarche/Piedmont – Producers making progress in this region but still continue to fight mud. Test weights now averaging 59 lbs. for the region. Yield averages reported in the mid 40’s with some management intensive wheat reported to be making in the mid 50’s to low 60’s. Protein is varying in this region, but East of Okarche into Piedmont region several higher proteins being reported above 12%.This region is 70% harvested.
Kingfisher/Omega/Loyal/Reeding – Some lower test weights now coming in the region. The area still looking at 58 lb. per bushel to 59 lb. per bushel average for the region. Yields ranging in the mid 30’s to mid 50’s depending on management practices. Several producers have grazed heavily in this region which has impacted yield. Producers that did not graze heavily with management intensive plans reporting yields in the mid 50’s to mid 60’s. Proteins ranging from 10.5% to 11.2%. The Kingfisher, Reeding and Omega locations are 70 percent complete. Loyal locations are 65% completed.
North Central and Northern Oklahoma
Okeene/Fairview/Ringwood/Lahoma- Producers in the Fairview, Ringwood and Lahoma region seem to be further ahead than in the region West of Okeene. Test weights still coming in above 60 lbs. per bushel in several of these locations. Yields ranging from the mid 40’s to mid 50’s for the most part, with intensive management fields making 60 to 80 bushels. Protein reports are varying across this area with lower than expected proteins in some areas and much higher than expected proteins in other parts. The protein average in this region is at 11.5%.The Fairview/Ringwood/Lahoma areas are reported at 60% complete, the Okeene region going west is reported at 40% harvested.
McWillie/Helena/Goltry- Producers in McWillie/Helena area made great progress this past 5 to 6 days. Test weights still averaging 60 lbs. per bushel on later cuttings. Yields ranging from high 30’s to mid 50’s depending on management practices. Some intensively managed wheat reported to be making in the mid 60’s. No protein was reported at this time.This region is considered to be 70% harvested.
Kremlin/Hunter/Pond Creek-Producers continue to make progress in this region while still fighting mud. Test weights are still holding up remarkably well with ranges from 58 lbs. to 61 lbs. per bushel depending on location and variety. Yields reported in the mid 40’s to mid 50’s on these early cuttings for the most part. Some intensively managed fields making in the mid 60’s. Protein averaging 11.2%. This region is considered to be 35% harvested.
Tonkawa/Ponca City/Blackwell/Braman–Great progress has been made the last couple days in the area, but producers still fighting mud. Test weights being reported at 58 lbs. to 59 lbs. per bushel. This region has had extremely heavy rains and for test weights to be holding at these averages is a welcome surprise. Yields on early cuttings ranging from low 40’s to mid 50’s for the most part. It should be noted that a large area in this region has either suffered severe flooding and hail events. Also several fields will most likely be abandoned due to heavy weed issues. Protein on early cuttings averaging 11.1%. This region is considered 25% harvested.
Northwest Oklahoma
Shattuck/Comargo- Producers have made great strides in this region over the last 5 days. Yields reported as making in the low 30’s to mid 40’s. This area has also been heavily grazed and for this reason yields are a bit lower. Test weights coming in at 60 lbs. or higher. Protein averaging 11.1%.This region is considered to be 75% harvested.
Burlington- Producers have made great strides in this region over the last 5 days. Yields being reported from mid 50’s to mid 60’s for the most part. Some intensively managed production making in the mid 80’s. Test weights averaging 60 or above. Protein reported at 11.1%. This region is considered 75% harvested.
Northeast Oklahoma
Afton/Miami- Producers have made great progress the last couple of days, still fighting extremely muddy conditions. This region reporting two classes — Hard Red Winter and Soft Red Winter wheat. This region reported at 30% percent complete.
**Hard Red Winter Class, test weights have been averaging 55 lbs. per bushel. Yields are ranging in the mid 20’s to mid 50’s depending on variety and location.
**Soft Red Winter Class, test weights have been averaging 56 lbs. to 58 lbs. per bushel. Yields are ranging in the mid 20’s to mid 50’s depending on variety and location.
Wheat Classes And What They Are Used For
Hard Red Winter (HRW) – A versatile wheat with excellent milling and baking characteristics for pan bread. Hard Red Winter wheat is also a choice for Asian noodles, hard rolls, flat breads, general purpose flour and cereal.
Soft Red Winter (SRW)– A versatile, weak-gluten wheat with excellent milling and baking characteristics suited for cookies, crackers, pretzels, pastries and flat breads.
Panhandle
Texhoma/Goodwell/Guymon/Hooker-A large portion of dryland harvest has taken place over the past week in the Panhandle. Yields on dryland wheat ranging from 20 bushels per acre to 50 bushels per acre depending on variety and location. Test weights on dryland wheat ranging from 55 lbs. to 61 lbs. per bushel depending on variety and location. Proteins averaging 11.5% for the region. Heavy rains on Monday evening hindered harvest in some locations on Tuesday, but producers are hopeful to get back in the fields today. At the time of this report, no irrigated wheat has been reported as being harvested. It is thought producers will start getting into irrigated wheat the end of this week. The dryland wheat in this region is considered 70 to 75% harvested depending on location.
Below, see the 7-day forecast provided by the Oklahoma Mesonet.
NWS Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast
The Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast is produced by the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center for June 25-30, 2025.
Oklahoma wheat harvest continues with producers making great strides despite fighting mud in several locations across central and Northern Oklahoma. **Test weights across the state have dropped due to all the heavy rains last week, but statewide we are still looking at a 59 lb. per bushel average despite some lower test weights reported based on location and variety. Yields across the state are being reported from the mid 30’s to mid 50’s for the most part. Producers with management intensive plans have been reporting yields in the mid 60’s to low 80’s. Protein across the state averaging 11.1%. Due to several locations making great progress in parts of Southwest, Central, and North Central, OK the OWC is calling harvest 37% completed at the time of this report. The next OWC harvest report will be published on Wednesday June 25, 2025.
Southwest and Western Oklahoma-
Walters/Temple/Ahpeatone/Ryan/Hulen–Harvest has made great progress in this region over the past 5 days. Despite lower test weights due to rains last week, these locations looking at 58 lb. to 59lb. averages for the region. Yields are ranging all over the board from 20 bushels per acre to 40 bushels per acre, with some higher yields noted on earlier cuttings. Protein averaging 11.9%. It should be noted this region will take in 1/3 less than the five year average due to excessive flooding on wheat that will never be harvested.This region is 90% harvested.
Carter/Brinkman/Altus/Lone Wolf– Test weights have dropped some but this region still looking at 59 lbs. per bushel average test weight for the entire harvest. Yields being reported in the mid 30’s to mid 40’s, with some intensively managed wheat reported to be making in the low 50’s to mid 60’s. Proteins averaging 11.2%. These regions are 95% harvested.
Hobart- This area has not moved along as fast due to heavier rains at times earlier in the season. Test weights averaging 59 lbs. per bushel for the location. Yields ranging in the mid 30’s to mid 50’s with some management intensive wheat making in the high 70’s to low 80’s. Protein is averaging 11.2% Several reports from producers also show good wheat in this region if they are just able to get into the fields to get it harvested. This region reported to be 70% harvested.
Gotebo-This area has not moved along as fast due to heavier rains at times. Test weights averaging 58 lbs. per bushel. Yields ranging from mid 30’s to mid 50’s. Protein is averaging 11.2%. This region is 40% harvested.
Sentinel/Rocky-Producers have made great progress in these regions. Test weights for the entire region averaging 59 lbs. per bushel. Early yields reported in the mid 30’s to mid 40’s on heavily grazed wheat. As producers get further into harvest the yields have gotten better in the mid 40’s to low 50’s in some instances. Protein averaging 11.8%.The Sentinel region is 95% harvested, the Rocky region has received more rain and is 70% completed.
Central Oklahoma
Greenfield-Harvest in this region has made great progress on sandier ground over the weekend. Test weights ranging from 58.5 lbs. to 62 lbs. per bushel depending on variety and location. Yields being reported from the mid 40’s to mid 60’s, with even some higher yields on management intensive wheat. Protein ranging from 10.7% to 11.1%. This area being reported as 50 percent harvested.
Okarche/Piedmont –Producers making progress in this region but have really been fighting mud over the weekend which has hindered the ability for many to get back into fields. Test weights now averaging 59 lbs. for the region. Yield averages reported in the mid 40’s with some management intensive wheat reported to be making in the mid 50’s to low 60’s. Protein is varying in this region, but East of Okarche into Piedmont region several higher proteins being reported above 12%.This region is 50 percent harvested.
Kingfisher/Omega/Loyal/Reeding – Some lower test weights now coming in the region. The area still looking at 58 lb. per bushel to 59 lb. per bushel average for the region. Yields ranging in the mid 30’s to mid 50’s depending on management practices. Several producers have grazed heavily in this region which has impacted yield. Producers that did not graze heavily with management intensive plans reporting yields in the mid 50’s to mid 60’s. Proteins ranging from 10.5% to 11.2%. The Kingfisher region is 50 percent harvested, Omega location is 35% harvested, Loyal and Reeding locations are 30% completed.
North Central and Northern Oklahoma
McWillie/Helena/Goltry- Producers in McWillie/Helena area made great progress this past 5 to 6 days. Test weights still averaging 60 lbs. per bushel on later cuttings. Yields ranging from high 30’s to mid 50’s depending on management practices. Some intensively managed wheat reported to be making in the mid 60’s. No protein was reported at this time. This region is considered to be 50% harvested.
Kremlin/Hunter/Pond Creek-Producers have just gotten good starts over the weekend in this region and have been fighting mud. Test weights are still holding up remarkably well with ranges from 58 lbs. to 61 lbs. per bushel depending on location and variety. Yields reported in the mid 40’s to mid 50’s on these early cuttings for the most part. Some intensively managed fields making in the mid 60’s. Protein averaging 11.2%. This region considered to be 20% harvested.
Tonkawa/Ponca City/Blackwell/Braman– This region just getting a good start over the weekend. Test weights being reported at 58 lbs. to 59 lbs. per bushel. This region has had extremely heavy rains and for test weights to be holding at these averages is a welcome surprise. Yields on early cuttings ranging from low 40’s to mid 50’s for the most part. It should be noted that a large area in this region has either suffered severe flooding and hail events. Also several fields will most likely be abandoned due to heavy weed issues. Protein on early cuttings averaging 11.1%. This region is considered 8% harvested.
Northwest Oklahoma
Shattuck/Comargo- Producers have made great strides in this region over the last 5 days. Yields reported as making in the low 30’s to mid 40’s. This area has also been heavily grazed and for this reason yields are a bit lower. Test weights coming in at 60 lbs. or higher. Protein averaging 11.1% This region is considered to be 60% harvested.
Burlington- Producers have made great strides in this region over the last 5 days. Yields being reported from mid 50’s to mid 60’s for the most part. Some intensively managed production making in the mid 80’s. Test weights averaging 60 or above. Protein reported at 11.1%. This region is considered 60% harvested.
Northeast Oklahoma
Afton/Miami- Producers are just getting into fields over the weekend in this region. They have had to fight heavy rains and extremely muddy conditions. This region reporting two classes — Hard Red Winter and Soft Red Winter wheat. This region reported at 5 percent complete.
**Hard Red Winter Class, test weights have been averaging 55 lbs. per bushel. Yields are ranging in the mid 20’s to mid 50’s depending on variety and location.
**Soft Red Winter Class, test weights have been averaging 56 lbs. to 58 lbs. per bushel. Yields are ranging in the mid 20’s to mid 50’s depending on variety and location.
Wheat Classes And What They Are Used For
Hard Red Winter (HRW) – A versatile wheat with excellent milling and baking characteristics for pan bread. Hard Red Winter wheat is also a choice for Asian noodles, hard rolls, flat breads, general purpose flour and cereal.
Soft Red Winter (SRW)– A versatile, weak-gluten wheat with excellent milling and baking characteristics suited for cookies, crackers, pretzels, pastries and flat breads.
Panhandle
Texhoma/Goodwell/Guymon/Hooker-A large portion of dryland harvest has taken place over the past week in the Panhandle. Yields on dryland wheat ranging from 20 bushels per acre to 50 bushels per acre depending on variety and location. Test weights on dryland wheat ranging from 55 lbs. to 61 lbs. per bushel depending on variety and location. Proteins averaging 11.5% for the region. At the time of this report, no irrigated wheat has been reported as being harvested. It is thought producers will start getting into irrigated wheat the end of this week. The dryland wheat in this region is considered 50 percent harvested.
Below, see the 7-day forecast provided by the Oklahoma Mesonet.
NWS Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast
The Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast is produced by the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center for June 23-28, 2025.
Oklahoma wheat harvest is at a standstill across the state today. Some minor harvesting continued in parts of Southwest Oklahoma yesterday, but most places were rained out. Southwest of Altus and North of Altus got heavy rains that moved East causing large amounts of moisture in Grady County and locations further east of the I-35 corridor. Rains and high humidity also delayed harvest from taking place in Central Oklahoma. More rains continue to be predicted starting tomorrow through the weekend across western Oklahoma. The next Oklahoma harvest report will be published on Monday, June 9, 2025.
There is no new harvest report at this time, as most locations have not seen any harvest activity since Monday. To view Monday’s report, please refer to my previous post.
Below, see the 7-day forecast provided by the Oklahoma Mesonet and the 5-day precipitation forecast along with Monday and Tuesday storm potentials.
NWS Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast
The Days 1-5 Precipitation Forecast is produced by the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center for June 4-9, 2025. See 2-Day Rainfall Accumulation (inches) measured by Oklahoma Mesonet.
Severe Weather Potential Indications for Thursday and Friday this week!
Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist
The first hollow stem stage indicates the beginning of stem elongation or just before the jointing stage. It is a good indicator of when producers should remove cattle from wheat pasture. This occurs when there is 1.5 cm (5/8”, or the diameter of a dime) of hollow stem below the developing grain head (see full explanation).
The latest FHS results from OSU forage trials in Stillwater (Table 1) and Chickasha (Table 2) are listed below. For an additional resource and wheat update on FHS, see the Mesonet First Hollow Stem Advisor.
OSU Small Grains Program monitors FHS occurrence on a twice-per-week basis
As in previous years, we will continue monitoring FHS occurrence in our wheat plots at Stillwater and Chickasha and share updates on this blog. In past years, our forage trials—where FHS samples are collected—were seeded early to simulate a grazed system, though forage was not removed. This method created an accelerated growth environment, allowing us to identify the earliest onset of FHS. Varieties that reach FHS earliest in these trials should be closely monitored in commercial fields.
This year, we are introducing a new approach by simulating grazing with a mower in the forage trial in Stillwater. This will allow us to compare whether varieties reach FHS at different times when grazed versus non-grazed. We hypothesize that the simulated grazing treatment will likely delay FHS relative to the non-grazed treatment, with FHS differences among varieties becoming less pronounced. We also hypothesize that the amount of delay will vary among varieties, such that an early-FHS variety in the non-grazed environment may appear more intermediate in its FHS arrival with canopy removal. This comparison will provide insight into how canopy removal from grazing impacts the timing of reproductive development.
The latest FHS results for each variety planted in our forage trials at Stillwater and Chickasha are summarized below (Tables 1 and 2). All varieties have reached the FHS threshold in Chickasha and Stillwater.
Table 1. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Stillwater. Plots were planted on 10/11/24, with one section left unclipped and the other clipped to simulate grazing. The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red. For the simulated grazing, plots were mowed on January 3rd, 15th, 28th, February 10th, March 6th and 12th at a 2.5-3” cutting height, with the frequency representing a light grazing treatment.
Table 2. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Chickasha. Plots were planted on 10/02/24, with all sections left unclipped (i.e., not grazed). The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red.
Contact your local Extension office and us if you have questions.
Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist
The first hollow stem stage indicates the beginning of stem elongation or just before the jointing stage. It is a good indicator of when producers should remove cattle from wheat pasture. This occurs when there is 1.5 cm (5/8”, or the diameter of a dime) of hollow stem below the developing grain head (see full explanation).
The latest FHS results from OSU forage trials in Stillwater (Table 1) and Chickasha (Table 2) are listed below. For an additional resource and wheat update on FHS, see the Mesonet First Hollow Stem Advisor.
OSU Small Grains Program monitors FHS occurrence on a twice-per-week basis
As in previous years, we will continue monitoring FHS occurrence in our wheat plots at Stillwater and Chickasha and share updates on this blog. In past years, our forage trials—where FHS samples are collected—were seeded early to simulate a grazed system, though forage was not removed. This method created an accelerated growth environment, allowing us to identify the earliest onset of FHS. Varieties that reach FHS earliest in these trials should be closely monitored in commercial fields.
This year, we are introducing a new approach by simulating grazing with a mower in the forage trial in Stillwater. This will allow us to compare whether varieties reach FHS at different times when grazed versus non-grazed. We hypothesize that the simulated grazing treatment will likely delay FHS relative to the non-grazed treatment, with FHS differences among varieties becoming less pronounced. We also hypothesize that the amount of delay will vary among varieties, such that an early-FHS variety in the non-grazed environment may appear more intermediate in its FHS arrival with canopy removal. This comparison will provide insight into how canopy removal from grazing impacts the timing of reproductive development.
The latest FHS results for each variety planted in our forage trials at Stillwater and Chickasha are summarized below (Tables 1 and 2). All varieties have reached the FHS threshold in Chickasha. In Stillwater, all varieties have reached FHS in the non-grazed plots, with only two varieties yet to reach FHS in the simulated grazed plots.
Table 1. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Stillwater. Plots were planted on 10/11/24, with one section left unclipped and the other clipped to simulate grazing. The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red. For the simulated grazing, plots were mowed on January 3rd, 15th, 28th, February 10th, and March 6th at a 2.5-3” cutting height, with the frequency representing a light grazing treatment.
Table 2. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Chickasha. Plots were planted on 10/02/24, with all sections left unclipped (i.e., not grazed). The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red.
Contact your local Extension office and us if you have questions.
Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist
The first hollow stem stage indicates the beginning of stem elongation or just before the jointing stage. It is a good indicator of when producers should remove cattle from wheat pasture. This occurs when there is 1.5 cm (5/8”, or the diameter of a dime) of hollow stem below the developing grain head (see full explanation).
The latest FHS results from OSU forage trials in Stillwater (Table 1) and Chickasha (Table 2) are listed below. For an additional resource and wheat update on FHS, see the Mesonet First Hollow Stem Advisor.
OSU Small Grains Program monitors FHS occurrence on a twice-per-week basis
As in previous years, we will continue monitoring FHS occurrence in our wheat plots at Stillwater and Chickasha and share updates on this blog. In past years, our forage trials—where FHS samples are collected—were seeded early to simulate a grazed system, though forage was not removed. This method created an accelerated growth environment, allowing us to identify the earliest onset of FHS. Varieties that reach FHS earliest in these trials should be closely monitored in commercial fields.
This year, we are introducing a new approach by simulating grazing with a mower in the forage trial in Stillwater. This will allow us to compare whether varieties reach FHS at different times when grazed versus non-grazed. We hypothesize that the simulated grazing treatment will likely delay FHS relative to the non-grazed treatment, with FHS differences among varieties becoming less pronounced. We also hypothesize that the amount of delay will vary among varieties, such that an early-FHS variety in the non-grazed environment may appear more intermediate in its FHS arrival with canopy removal. This comparison will provide insight into how canopy removal from grazing impacts the timing of reproductive development.
The latest FHS results for each variety planted in our forage trials at Stillwater and Chickasha are summarized below (Tables 1 and 2). In Chickasha, all varieties have reached the FHS threshold, and in Stillwater, most varieties have reached FHS.
Table 1. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Stillwater. Plots were planted on 10/11/24, with one section left unclipped and the other clipped to simulate grazing. The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red. For the simulated grazing, plots were mowed on January 3rd, 15th, 28th, February 10th, and March 6th at a 2.5-3” cutting height, with the frequency representing a light grazing treatment.
Table 2. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Chickasha. Plots were planted on 10/02/24, with all sections left unclipped (i.e., not grazed). The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red.
Contact your local Extension office and us if you have questions.
Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist
The first hollow stem stage indicates the beginning of stem elongation or just before the jointing stage. It is a good indicator of when producers should remove cattle from wheat pasture. This occurs when there is 1.5 cm (5/8”, or the diameter of a dime) of hollow stem below the developing grain head (see full explanation).
The latest FHS results from OSU forage trials in Stillwater (Table 1) and Chickasha (Table 2) are listed below. For an additional resource and wheat update on FHS, see the Mesonet First Hollow Stem Advisor.
OSU Small Grains Program monitors FHS occurrence on a twice-per-week basis
As in previous years, we will continue monitoring FHS occurrence in our wheat plots at Stillwater and Chickasha and share updates on this blog. In past years, our forage trials—where FHS samples are collected—were seeded early to simulate a grazed system, though forage was not removed. This method created an accelerated growth environment, allowing us to identify the earliest onset of FHS. Varieties that reach FHS earliest in these trials should be closely monitored in commercial fields.
This year, we are introducing a new approach by simulating grazing with a mower in the forage trial in Stillwater. This will allow us to compare whether varieties reach FHS at different times when grazed versus non-grazed. We hypothesize that the simulated grazing treatment will likely delay FHS relative to the non-grazed treatment, with FHS differences among varieties becoming less pronounced. We also hypothesize that the amount of delay will vary among varieties, such that an early-FHS variety in the non-grazed environment may appear more intermediate in its FHS arrival with canopy removal. This comparison will provide insight into how canopy removal from grazing impacts the timing of reproductive development.
The latest FHS results for each variety planted in our forage trials at Stillwater and Chickasha are summarized below (Tables 1 and 2). All varieties have reached the FHS threshold in Chickasha. In Stillwater, most varieties have reached FHS in the non-grazed plots, while those in the simulated grazed plots need a few more days.
Table 1. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Stillwater. Plots were planted on 10/11/24, with one section left unclipped and the other clipped to simulate grazing. The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red. For the simulated grazing, plots were mowed on January 3rd, 15th, 28th, February 10th, and March 6th at a 2.5-3” cutting height, with the frequency representing a light grazing treatment.
Table 2. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Chickasha. Plots were planted on 10/02/24, with all sections left unclipped (i.e., not grazed). The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red.
Contact your local Extension office and us if you have questions.
Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist
The first hollow stem stage indicates the beginning of stem elongation or just before the jointing stage. It is a good indicator of when producers should remove cattle from wheat pasture. This occurs when there is 1.5 cm (5/8”, or the diameter of a dime) of hollow stem below the developing grain head (see full explanation).
The latest FHS results from OSU forage trials in Stillwater (Table 1) and Chickasha (Table 2) are listed below. For an additional resource and wheat update on FHS, see the Mesonet First Hollow Stem Advisor.
OSU Small Grains Program monitors FHS occurrence on a twice-per-week basis
As in previous years, we will continue monitoring FHS occurrence in our wheat plots at Stillwater and Chickasha and share updates on this blog. In past years, our forage trials—where FHS samples are collected—were seeded early to simulate a grazed system, though forage was not removed. This method created an accelerated growth environment, allowing us to identify the earliest onset of FHS. Varieties that reach FHS earliest in these trials should be closely monitored in commercial fields.
This year, we are introducing a new approach by simulating grazing with a mower in the forage trial in Stillwater. This will allow us to compare whether varieties reach FHS at different times when grazed versus non-grazed. We hypothesize that the simulated grazing treatment will likely delay FHS relative to the non-grazed treatment, with FHS differences among varieties becoming less pronounced. We also hypothesize that the amount of delay will vary among varieties, such that an early-FHS variety in the non-grazed environment may appear more intermediate in its FHS arrival with canopy removal. This comparison will provide insight into how canopy removal from grazing impacts the timing of reproductive development.
The latest FHS results for each variety planted in our forage trials at Stillwater and Chickasha are summarized below (Tables 1 and 2). Some varieties have reached the FHS threshold.
Table 1. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Stillwater. Plots were planted on 10/11/24, with one section left unclipped and the other clipped to simulate grazing. The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red. For the simulated grazing, plots were mowed on January 3rd, 15th, 28th, February 10th, and March 6th at a 2.5-3” cutting height, with the frequency representing a light grazing treatment.
Table 2. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Chickasha. Plots were planted on 10/02/24, with all sections left unclipped (i.e., not grazed). The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red.
Contact your local Extension office and us if you have questions.
Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Small Grains Extension Specialist
The first hollow stem stage indicates the beginning of stem elongation or just before the jointing stage. It is a good indicator of when producers should remove cattle from wheat pasture. This occurs when there is 1.5 cm (5/8”, or the diameter of a dime) of hollow stem below the developing grain head (see full explanation).
The latest FHS results from OSU forage trials in Stillwater (Table 1) and Chickasha (Table 2) are listed below. For an additional resource and wheat update on FHS, see the Mesonet First Hollow Stem Advisor.
OSU Small Grains Program monitors FHS occurrence on a twice-per-week basis
As in previous years, we will continue monitoring FHS occurrence in our wheat plots at Stillwater and Chickasha and share updates on this blog. In past years, our forage trials—where FHS samples are collected—were seeded early to simulate a grazed system, though forage was not removed. This method created an accelerated growth environment, allowing us to identify the earliest onset of FHS. Varieties that reach FHS earliest in these trials should be closely monitored in commercial fields.
This year, we are introducing a new approach by simulating grazing with a mower in the forage trial in Stillwater. This will allow us to compare whether varieties reach FHS at different times when grazed versus non-grazed. We hypothesize that the simulated grazing treatment will likely delay FHS relative to the non-grazed treatment, with FHS differences among varieties becoming less pronounced. We also hypothesize that the amount of delay will vary among varieties, such that an early-FHS variety in the non-grazed environment may appear more intermediate in its FHS arrival with canopy removal. This comparison will provide insight into how canopy removal from grazing impacts the timing of reproductive development.
The latest FHS results for each variety planted in our forage trials at Stillwater and Chickasha are summarized below (Tables 1 and 2). Some varieties have reached the FHS threshold.
Table 1. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Stillwater. Plots were planted on 10/11/24, with one section left unclipped and the other clipped to simulate grazing. The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red. For the simulated grazing, plots were mowed on January 3rd, 15th, 28th, February 10th, and March 6th at a 2.5-3” cutting height, with the frequency representing a light grazing treatment.
Table 2. First Hollow Stem (FHS) results for each wheat variety collected at Chickasha. Plots were planted on 10/02/24, with all sections left unclipped (i.e., not grazed). The FHS threshold is 1.5 cm (5/8″ or approximately the diameter of a dime). Reported values represent the average of ten measurements per variety. Varieties that exceed the threshold are highlighted in red.
Contact your local Extension office and us if you have questions.
WORLD OF WHEAT 