Seeding dates for small grains and flax Seeding dates for small grains and flax E. A. Oelke and R.L. Thompson Agronomy Wheat, oats, barley, and flax do best where the growing season is relatively cool and moist. Small grain yields often are lower in years when temperatures of 90 o F or above are common during the grain filling period. Seedlings of spring wheat, oats, and barley are resistant to low temperatures, especially if they are gradually hardened before very cold temperatures. Spring wheat is more resistant to freezing than barley, which is more resistant than oats.
Small grains injured by low temperatures often recover and produce a good crop.
Seeds of wheat, barley, and oats will germinate at temperatures as low as 35-40 o F. Flax also prefers cool weather during the growing season. Short exposure to freezing temperatures at the seedling stage seldom injures flax, except when it is emerging from the soil. After the plants are 2 to 3 inches tall and hardened, they can withstand temperatures below 25 o F. for short periods. Moisture conditions, duration of the low temperature, and weather conditions preceding or following exposure to freezing temperatures will influence the damage or recovery of crops. It has long been recommended to seed small grains as early as possible in the northern states.