Winter wheat condition is rated 71 percent good to excellent compared with 77 percent a year ago at this time. Livestock are in mostly good condition. Calving remains active. The rotary hoe provides little incorporation of herbicide, but can effectively eliminate those weeds that are starting to emerge. This may be as early as 3 to 7 days after planting, depending upon date of planting.
Weeds germinate and emerge more rapidly at later planting dates.
A second rotary hoeing 5 to 7 days after the first will improve control, and may be necessary if rainfall continues to be lacking. The rotary hoe is most effective when the soil surface is smooth, dry, and firm, or where a crust is present. Rain shortly before or after rotary hoeing can greatly reduce effectiveness. For best results, operate the hoe in the same direction as crop rows at a minimum speed of 6 mph. Take precautions to reduce stand loss.