But since then it has been too wet for much growth. In Central Texas, an ideal crop would be 4 to 6 inches by now and jointing, but a lot of the crop is in the two or three leaf stage. Miller said as a result, the crop is small, off-color and suffering. We achieve high yields through a dense crop with lots of heads per square foot, and this is dependent on sunshine which allows second, third and fourth heads to develop on a plant. District Extension Director Galen Chandler of Vernon said wheat in the Rolling Plains made some growth last week during warm and mild weather, but a cold front that brought ice and low temperatures is now slowing growth.
Grazing remains limited, but cattle are being placed on wheat fields as they are available.
Extension Agronomist Dr. Billy Warrick of San Angelo said in addition to warm weather, the crop in West Central Texas could benefit from rain. It was seeded late and with cool temperatures, growth has been limited. We are hoping that with some moisture and warmer temperatures, the crop will respond quickly and put on growth. Warrick said marginal forage and grain production is expected, however. He said yields may range from 15 to 20 bushels per acre.