Stripe rust (Figure 1) was observed at a very low incidence in wheat research plots at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center in Princeton (Caldwell County) late last week. 

I have heard that many farmers, as well as personnel conducting research, have been spraying their wheat fields with pyrethroids during the last 2 weeks. As an applied entomologist I would not have any objection to these applications; however, in many cases this tactic is completed without taking tallies of aphids in wheat fields.

In the last week or so, reports of yellowing (chlorotic) wheat that is either spotty or streaky in fields are increasing. Some have even reported yellowing occurring on side slopes. In many cases, producers want to know if this yellowing is due to nitrogen loss, given the extraordinarily wet spring, and if additional nitrogen could ‘fix’ the yellowing.

Across Kentucky, most of the wheat crop that was planted in October has established well and is between Feekes 4 and Feekes 6, for Central to Southern Kentucky, respectively. Of course, this is assuming that is did not drown out from all the rain in March.

As wheat harvest quickly approaches, there may be an opportunity to improve profitability by baling the straw. Wheat straw is in high demand, especially in the Central Bluegrass region, as bedding for the horse industry.

For wheat that has not yet jointed (Feekes 3 to 5), these temperatures should not cause any damage. However, for wheat that has jointed (Feekes 6), temperatures at or below 24°F for 2 hours may cause freeze damage.

Nitrogen (N) management for wheat production is one of the most challenging operations that producers face. There is a fine balance between applying the proper rate of N, current and future weather conditions, economics, and potential environmental consequences.