In Kansas, what is the best seasonal farming calendar practice for wheat farming per acre?

The best seasonal farming calendar practice for wheat farming per acre in Kansas involves planting winter wheat between September 15 and October 15, with harvest occurring from mid-June through July, following guidelines established by Kansas State University Extension Service.

Kansas produces approximately 95% winter wheat, which requires a specific seasonal schedule to maximize yield per acre. The optimal planting window allows wheat to establish strong root systems before winter dormancy and benefit from natural vernalization during cold months.

Fall Activities (September-November):

• Soil testing and preparation in late August
• Planting winter wheat varieties like Everest or WB4458 between September 15-October 15
• Apply pre-emergence herbicides if needed
• Monitor emergence and establishment

Winter Management (December-February):

• Wheat enters dormancy phase
• Plan spring fertilizer applications
• Monitor for winter injury or pest issues

Spring Activities (March-May):

• Apply nitrogen fertilizer when wheat breaks dormancy (typically March)
• Monitor for diseases like stripe rust or leaf rust
• Apply fungicides if disease pressure warrants (April-May)
• Scout for aphids and other pests

Summer Harvest (June-July):

• Harvest when moisture content reaches 12-14%
• Average Kansas wheat yields range from 35-50 bushels per acre
• Begin stubble management and field preparation for next crop

According to Kansas State University research, proper timing within this seasonal calendar can increase yields by 15-20% compared to suboptimal planting dates. Early planted wheat (before September 15) faces increased disease pressure, while late planted wheat (after October 15) may not establish adequate root systems before winter.

A practical example: A farmer planting 100 acres of winter wheat on October 1 in central Kansas can expect to harvest approximately 4,000-5,000 bushels in late June, assuming normal weather conditions and proper fertility management throughout the growing season.

Successful wheat farming also requires coordination with crop rotation scheduling and consideration of double-cropping opportunities with soybeans or sorghum following wheat harvest.

Related: Seasonal Farming Calendar