Wheat Harvest Loss

Conner Raymond, Grain Crops Extension Associate, Princeton, KY
Dr. Sam McNeill, Extension Agricultural Engineer, Princeton, KY
Dr. Carrie Knott, Grain Crops Extension Specialist, Princeton, KY 

Summertime temperatures are upon us along with wheat harvest. The last time Kentucky had temperatures this extreme prior to wheat harvest was in 2018 (Table 1). That year, the average yield for the state was 66 bu/A. As a result of the sudden increase in temperature, test weights were reduced and wheat dried down significantly faster than normal. In contrast, 2021 had an almost ideal grain fill period, which resulted in a record-setting state average of 87 bu/A.  

Initial reports suggest that test weights should not be similar to 2018 and that reasonable yet non-record-breaking yields are likely. To protect as much of the crop as possible, it is important to make sure valuable yield is not being left in the field. When examining harvest loss 20 kernels per square foot equal about 1 bu/A loss. An acceptable harvest loss in wheat is less than 5% of the anticipated yield. (Table 2)  

How to check harvest losses

  • Check in front of the combine in standing wheat to determine pre-harvest loss

  • Kernels under the combine are both pre-harvest and header loss

  • Count kernels behind combine for total yield loss estimates (Table 2)

How to reduce harvest loss

  • Adjust combine settings (Fan, drum, traveling speed)

  • Harvest at proper moisture (13-15%)

  • Measure harvest losses to check harvest efficiency when conditions change

WheatJennifer Elwell