In the latest Crop Observation and Reporting Network (CORN) newsletter, Jim Beuerlein, Ohio State University (OSU) Extension agronomist, wrote an article that suggested that the cold damage to our wheat crop may not be severe. Beuerlein said the setback probably looks worse than the results will be.

Wheat is a very tough crop and it will recover with warmer weather and sunshine.

Any yield reduction will be dictated by the weather we have between now and head emergence, and also by the length of the grain fill period.

With good wheat weather, between now and the end of May, all the damage to date could be nullified. Beuerlein said, if temperatures stay cool through June and into early July, then yields could be really good. It all depends on the weather.

Top-dress applications of nitrogen to winter wheat are traditionally made in late March or early April.

Leaf burn often occurs when 28 percent solutions are the source of nitrogen.

Does leaf burning or scorching affect yield potential? Robert Mullen, soils and fertility specialist, OSU Extension, said that it depends primarily on the timing of application.

Applications of foliar nitrogen made prior to flag leaf emergence are unlikely to negatively affect yield potential.

The burn injury typically dissipates over a few days, especially if a rainfall event follows the appearance of the injury.

Applications made after flag leaf emergence may negatively affect yield potential if the flag leaf or the leaf below it are damaged.

Bottom line, do not apply foliar nitrogen after flag leaf emergence, or if you do, keep the rate of application low.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of Farm World. Readers with questions or comments for Steve Bartels may write to him in care of this publication.