Producing Irrigated Winter Wheat

EC731
Published 2009
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Winter wheat can extend irrigation water supplies when used in an irrigated crop rotation. Precipitation in the fall and winter help meet water needs as growth begins, while spring growth coincides with normally abundant precipitation patterns in Nebraska. Winter wheat develops an extensive and efficient root system for extracting soil water and also can use less total water than other crops such as corn. All of these factors help improve water use efficiency, reduce irrigation and energy costs, and extend aquifer life. If water for irrigation is limited, water supplies can be more easily shared with other crops requiring water after winter wheat has matured. Finally, when used in an irrigated crop rotation, durable and often abundant winter wheat residue can help reduce soil erosion and conserve soil water for the subsequent crop.

Publication Details

Authors

C. Dean Yonts

Drew J. Lyon

John A. Smith

Robert M Harveson

Gary W. Hergert

Gary L Hein

Dipak K. Santra

Subject

Crops

Crop Production/Field Crops

Publication Date October 21, 2009
Last Revision Date October 21, 2009
Language English
Formats

PDF (web)

Series Extension Circular