Seedlots with high vigor will have more seedlings that develop T0 tillers than will seed lots of lower vigor. When comparing seedlots growing in similar seedbed conditions, the percent of plants with T0 tillers can be used as one measure of seed vigor. When comparing the same seedlot in different seedbed conditions, the percent of plants with T0 tillers can be used as a measure of seedbed stress. Seeding deeper than is needed also reduces the number of T0 tillers that form. Growers should begin scouting fields for wild oats at this time.
Wild oats develop in a similar manner as wheat and barley.
Speed of leaf development is also similar. Because wild oat susceptibility to post-emergence herbicides is influenced by development stage, it is important to properly identify the stages. One can also use the GDD information to estimate how long it will take wheat, barley, or wild oat to reach specific stages. Many wild oat herbicides use seedling growth stages in label recommendations.