Fall Soil Sampling Predicts Winter Wheat Yield in Kansas

Kansas State University (K-State) trials have shown that fall soil sampling for nitrate levels can be a reliable predictor of winter wheat yield. In a study, researchers found a strong positive relationship between fall nitrate-N levels and final wheat yield when no nitrogen fertilizer was applied.

The results suggest that when fall nitrate-N levels are low, wheat yields respond well to fertilizer application. However, when nitrate-N levels exceed 80-100 lb/acre, additional spring-applied N rarely increases yield.

Fall soil sampling is a cost-effective way to fine-tune nitrogen management for winter wheat in Kansas, avoiding unnecessary inputs and protecting both yield and the environment.