Freezing temperatures that hit much of Oklahoma in mid-April may have wheat growers racing out to their fields to check on potential damage to their crop, but time is on their side in this instance. 

“The extent of the damage likely will not be identifiable until a week or so following such an extreme weather event,” said Amanda de Oliveira Silva, Oklahoma State University Extension small grains specialist. “Be aware recommendations about temperatures and time durations are rules of thumb and not an exact science. I’ve seen instances where conventional wisdom should indicate complete crop loss and we skate through with minimal damage.” 

However, there are some factors to consider: 

The amount of injury observed will depend on the growth stage of the plants, how low the temperature got and how long it stayed at those cold temperatures. Crop elevation, residue cover and moisture content also can play significant roles. 

“It’s possible to have variability in injury symptoms among fields and even within fields because of the large number of influential factors,” Silva said. “That’s why OSU Extension recommends checking each field.” 

Silva provides additional insights about assessing potential freeze-damaged wheat in this SUNUP video and on her online blog. 

Fact sheets detailing research-based information about best management practices for wheat production in Oklahoma are available online through OSU Extension and at OSU Extension county offices. 

“If a wheat producer is unsure how to properly assess potential freeze damage or have questions about management considerations, he or she should consult with their OSU Extension county agricultural educator,” Silva said. 

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