This year's weather-delayed cotton harvest on the South Plains also delayed many producers' plans to seed small grains for grain, forage or hay. But our soil temperatures on the South Plains have been cooler than normal since about Nov. 20. In fact, the average daily soil temperatures at a depth of 4 inches has been at or below 45 degrees. Wheat is more cold tolerant than oats or barley, and can produce an adequate stand if it is seeded when soil temperatures are as low as 40 degrees. Wheat yield potential declines steadily with later plantings.
Rye is more cold tolerant than wheat.
The soil temperature planting guides that apply to wheat also work well for rye. Oats achieve adequate germination and stands when the soil temperature is 50 degrees. Lower soil temperatures hinder germination, leaving some of the seed dormant in seeded ground until the soil warms up. Oats seeded in cool soils are also susceptible to rot, if soil moisture is ample. Even if it does germinate, cold temperatures will likely retard its growth.