Field Days, Grain Gains & On To May! - RDA 410
Oklahoma wheat producers faced no shortage of challenges this year — from drought-stressed fields to sudden rains that shifted planting strategies overnight. In this live episode, researchers share how small management tweaks, like adjusting fungicide timing or reevaluating planting dates, can mean the difference between a struggling field and a successful harvest. With real-world examples and expert advice, it’s a deep dive into the intersection of science and survival on the Great Plains. You'll hear how intensive wheat management trials are changing recommendations, how the latest nitrogen research is overturning old assumptions, and why first hollow stem timing remains a critical decision point for dual-purpose wheat systems. Plus, find out how Oklahoma’s new wheat text update service is keeping farmers connected to the latest info when it matters most.
Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast · Dave Deken, Brian Arnall Ph.D., Raedan Sharry Ph.D., Amanda Silva Ph.D.
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Show Notes
Get ready for a boots-on-the-ground update straight from the Oklahoma wheat fields! Dave Deken, Dr. Brian Arnall, and Dr. Raedan Sharry sit down with Dr. Amanda Silva at the Chickasha Research Station to talk all things wheat — from field day opportunities, intensive and traditional management strategies, to the latest on planting dates, nitrogen management, and the importance of first hollow stem timing.
They dive into how small changes in management can make or break a wheat crop, especially after a rollercoaster weather year.
Hear the latest research insights, the real-world challenges facing Oklahoma wheat growers this season, and how producers are using tools like text updates to stay informed.
Whether you’re in the tractor, scouting fields, or planning for next season, this episode is packed with practical knowledge, expert advice, and a few laughs along the way.
Timestamps for the Episode
00:00 – Welcome from Chickasha Research Station and intro to field day insights
00:39 – Dr. Arnall: Why field days matter for producers and researchers
01:49 – Dr. Silva: Learning from producers and adjusting research
02:07 – Discussing wheat varieties and intensive vs. traditional management
03:51 – Stripe rust impacts and the power of fungicide management
06:04 – Making fungicide decisions in stressed wheat crops
08:06 – Current wheat conditions across Oklahoma
10:57 – Planting struggles and recovery after heavy rains
12:20 – Weed challenges and herbicide timing issues
13:32 – Planting date research: Extending the season into December
14:56 – Seeding rate findings and adjusting nitrogen management
20:39 – Yield surprises from delayed planting dates
22:23 – First Hollow Stem timing and management strategies
26:44 – New text alert system for Oklahoma wheat producers
30:15 – Final thoughts and wrap-up
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