Impact of Planting Date, Cultivar, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Fungicide Seed Treatments on Winter Wheat Survival and Yield

Abstract

Field experiments and greenhouse studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and fungicides on winter survival, and yield of winter-wheat in North Dakota. The study was conducted as a RCBD with a split-plot of planting date, and a factorial combination of cultivars and seed treatments. Of the factors included, cultivar was the most contributing factor for fall emergence, spring stand count, and yield. Planting date was confounded by insufficient autumn soil moisture, delaying emergence approximately 50% at Minot, Williston, and Hettinger. Phosphorus, K, and fungicide treatment effects were not consistent across locations, but fungicide, priming and selected P and K treatments increased stand count or yield at Hettinger, Williston, and Lisbon. These data indicate the use of winter-hardy cultivars, fungicides, and favorable conditions in the fall for emergence are critical factors for growing winter wheat in North Dakota.