Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Evapotranspiration (Crop Water Use) and Crop Coefficients (EC3005)

Winter wheat is an important commodity grain crop in the United States and globally, and the third major crop grown in Nebraska. From emergence to harvest, effective water management is important at each stage of wheat growth. Water use can vary substantially on a daily basis, depending on climatic conditions and wheat health. Winter wheat water use (evapotranspiration, ETc) depends on variety; growth stage; canopy and leaf structure; population density; climatic conditions; and irrigation, soil, and crop management practices. This extension circular discusses the interannual variation in measured wheat ETc and presents measured grass-and alfalfa-reference crop coefficients (Kc) for each specific growth stage. Crop growth-specific crop coefficient tables were developed, which can be used in practical applications by wheat growers, their advisors, water management and agricultural agencies, and other professionals.