To get wheat off to a strong start this spring, do these six things:

1. Consult with your local agronomist to determine the ideal window for field preparation, planting and early-season scouting. Agronomists can also provide insight into how soil temperatures and current weather conditions may impact planting and early-season pest pressure.

2. Implement an integrated crop management plan to ensure optimal stand establishment and protect against yield-robbing soilborne diseases.

3. Clear fields of residual weeds. It is important to establish a clean, weed-free field at least two weeks before planting wheat. If not, insects and diseases living in previous crop residue or remaining weeds can travel to newly emerging wheat and other spring crops. For optimum weed control, apply a quality burndown, preplant or preemergence herbicide to control a broad spectrum of broadleaf and grass weeds. Beginning the season with a clean field gives crops the best chance for a uniform start.

4. Select fresh, clean, certified seed to address local challenges. Certified seed is defined as seed that has passed an inspection and seed testing process regulated by government agencies and that meets specified variety standards. Planting certified seed varieties helps ensure genetic purity, smoother plant-ability, seedling vigor and improved germination and emergence. Research has shown that certified seed varieties consistently outperform saved seed in yield, quality and test weight.

5. Protect the seed. Consider an insecticide seed treatment to provide protection against some of the most destructive wheat and barley insects, including wireworms, Hessian fly and aphids. As you consider an insecticide, you should also consider choosing a fungicide seed treatment, to protect against a broad range of seedborne and soilborne diseases, such as rhizoctonia and pythium.

6. Scout early and often. Scouting is important at several stages of the growing season, and it’s best to start early. The first scouting trip should be to identify the pest species already present. After initial product applications, scout two to three weeks later to ensure good control has been achieved. Maintain consistent scouting practices throughout the season and increase the frequency as needed during times of high pest pressure.

By following these steps and being proactive, you can get ahead of problems and pests, and ultimately produce more profitable wheat.

Popiel is the Syngenta agronomic service representative in North Dakota. For more information about wheat agronomy tips or concerns, email [email protected].