WOYM - Wheat: Value Beyond the Value of the Grain

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We discuss the versatility of winter wheat, its economic advantages, and its environmental contributions, emphasizing the need to recognize its value beyond just grain production.
Dr. Romulo Lollato is the Extension wheat and forage production specialist at Kansas State University. 
He brings a years of knowledge from his extensive work in sustainable cropping systems, focusing on the multifaceted role of winter wheat. 
His insights into the declining wheat acreage in the U.S. and the crop's benefits beyond grain production highlight his commitment to educating farmers, banks, and policymakers about the intrinsic value of wheat in agriculture.

What you will learn from this episode:

- Why winter wheat offers a broad planting window, providing flexibility in farming operations.
- How the dual-purpose nature of winter wheat allows for both grain and forage production, enhancing economic benefits.
- The efficient nitrogen management can significantly reduce losses and optimize input costs.
- How winter wheat facilitates double cropping, maximizing land use and increasing productivity.
- Research shows that late nitrogen application can yield better results than traditional fall applications.
- Why critical growth stages, like the first hollow stem, are essential for maximizing yield potential.
- How stakeholders can better appreciate winter wheat's role in sustainable agriculture through education and awareness campaigns.

"The more nitrogen goes into the crop, the less nitrogen you're losing in terms of economic and environmental impact." - Dr. Romulo Lollato

What To Listen For:

(00:00:01) - Introduction to the Wheat's On Your Mind podcast and guest Romulo Lollato.
(00:00:26) - Discussion on wheat's role in global food security and the new campaign to highlight its value beyond grain.
(00:01:02) - Romulo shares the origins of the research publication on wheat's benefits.
(00:01:21) - Romulo reflects on the reduction of wheat area in the U.S. and its implications.
(00:02:49) - The benefits of wheat in cropping systems and the importance of compiling this information.
(00:04:15) - Aaron emphasizes the need to communicate wheat's value to various audiences.
(00:05:14) - Focus on the versatility of winter wheat in cropping systems.
(00:06:51) - Romulo discusses the critical period for yield determination in winter wheat.
(00:08:28) - The flexibility of winter wheat's growing cycle compared to summer crops.
(00:09:13) - Comparison of planting windows between winter wheat and summer crops.
(00:10:05) - Romulo explains how planting dates affect yield potential in different regions.
(00:10:28) - Introduction of Romulo Lollato, Ph.D. discussing the impact of planting dates on wheat yield potential.
(00:11:04) - Explanation of the wider planting window in south central Kansas and northern Oklahoma due to milder fall temperatures.
(00:11:29) - Discussion on the flexibility farmers have regarding planting times without significantly compromising yield.
(00:11:48) - A case study from the 2024 harvest illustrating successful late planting results.
(00:12:30) - Insights on how planting too early or too late can affect wheat yields.
(00:12:59) - Aaron Harries highlights the significance of the 50 to 60-day planting window for grazing and animal production.
(00:13:29) - Romulo shares his surprise at the prevalence of grazing wheat in the U.S. compared to his experience in Brazil.
(00:14:12) - Discussion on the potential forage yield from early-planted wheat and its quality.
(00:15:20) - Overview of grazing management strategies and their impact on wheat yield and beef weight gain.
(00:16:36) - Long-term research findings on the yield differences between grazers and non-grazers in wheat production.
(00:17:25) - Romulo emphasizes the importance of managing grazing to minimize yield penalties.
(00:18:30) - Transition to discussing nitrogen management flexibility in winter wheat production.
(00:19:04) - Romulo explains the timing of nitrogen application and its significance for crop growth in dry regions.
(00:20:08) - Discussion on the timing of nitrogen application and its impact on nitrogen use efficiency.
(00:21:25) - Overview of a study by Brian Arnau on nitrogen recovery in crops.
(00:21:44) - Explanation of the treatments applied in the study to assess nitrogen deficiency recovery.
(00:22:09) - Findings reveal that crops can still yield better even after visible nitrogen deficiency, as long as nitrogen is applied by joint stage.
(00:23:01) - Emphasis on the wide window of opportunity for nitrogen application before crop needs it.
(00:23:28) - Discussion on the economic benefits of efficient nitrogen use and its environmental impact.
(00:23:39) - Mention of potential market fluctuations in fertilizer prices during the application period.
(00:24:10) - Insights on the benefits of late nitrogen application for protein content versus yield.
(00:24:45) - Discussion on the value of straw and the timing of harvest for double cropping opportunities.
(00:25:14) - Exploration of the benefits of residue management and timely planting for double cropping.
(00:26:12) - Strategies for optimizing cropping systems through variety selection and management adjustments.
(00:27:02) - Summary of the flexibility and versatility that winter wheat offers to farmers.
(00:27:53) - Recap of the advantages of winter wheat in terms of vegetative growth and yield potential.
(00:28:27) - Discussion on the dual-purpose system and the timing of nitrogen fertilization for optimal results.
(00:29:15) - Final thoughts on the operational flexibility and cropping intensification opportunities provided by winter wheat.
(00:30:04) - Aaron introduces the goal of the "Wheat Beyond the Value of the Grain" campaign and mentions upcoming content on social media.
(00:30:36) - Romulo shares details about a new webpage, ksithrx.com, aimed at providing information to growers.
(00:30:44) - Romulo elaborates on the resources available on the ksithrx.com website, including ongoing research projects and publications.
(00:31:12) - Aaron thanks Romulo for his insights during the episode.
(00:31:18) - Romulo expresses his appreciation for being part of the podcast.
(00:31:41) - Aaron encourages listeners to reach out with topics or questions and reminds them to visit the WeerX website for more information.

Kansas Wheat
WheatsOnYorMind.com