Guide to Successfully Growing Dryland Wheat

There are over 21 million acres of dryland cropland in the United States and wheat is the third most planted field crop. Knowing that, being able to successfully harvest dryland wheat is crucial for farmers, especially those in the western United States where the majority of dryland farming exists. In this article we will dive a bit deeper into dryland wheat and ways farmers can improve their yield, even in dryland areas. 

What is Dryland Farming?

Dryland farming or dryland cropping is the process of farming crops in an area with no irrigation and little rain. Areas with less than 20 inches of rain annually are considered dry. 

Growing Dryland Wheat

Wheat is one of the most resilient crops for dryland areas, but cultivating it under low-water conditions requires careful planning and care. Here are a few strategies to improve wheat yields in dry areas:

Plant Wheat Seeds in Ideal Temperatures 

Wheat germination and growth are sensitive to temperature. In dryland areas, it’s best to plant when temperatures are optimal for root development and soil moisture retention. In general, fall planting allows wheat to establish roots before the ground freezes, taking advantage of early spring rains. For regions with colder winters, winter wheat can be planted in the fall to emerge early in the season. The ideal soil temperature for planting wheat is between 54 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Use of Cover Crops

Cover crops, like legumes or certain grasses, can be planted to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and maintain soil moisture. These crops help create a mulch layer that retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and enriches the soil with organic matter and nitrogen. Selecting drought-tolerant cover crops (like sorghum species) suited to the local climate will also help the wheat crop thrive under dryland conditions.

Plant Without Tilling

No-till farming, or direct seeding, is an effective technique in dryland farming to preserve soil moisture. By avoiding tilling, farmers prevent soil from drying out and protect the natural soil structure. This method reduces erosion, improves water retention, and promotes beneficial microbial activity. No-till practices can lead to higher yields by helping wheat roots access residual soil moisture more effectively.

Fertilization Techniques for Dryland Wheat

Every crop will have unique challenges, so it is important that a soil test be completed, and a consultant be involved prior to investing significant resources into one strategy, but best practices for growing dryland wheat is as follows:

1. Conduct a soil test to understand nutrient deficiencies and moisture levels. 
2. Soil temperatures need to be at least 50 degrees. 
3. Application happening early/mid April or during flag leaf stage.

Organic Fertilizers for Dryland Wheat

Some of the best organic fertilizer options that have helped dryland wheat farmers are:

• A 7-7-7 to enhance yield. The nitrogen will give a boost in growth,

the phosphorus will help with soil temperature for good root growth and the potassium will

give the crop a boost of energy .

• Root Primer: A carbohydrate food source to help feed biology in the soil and help with

controlling insect and disease pressure.

• Micropak – A trace mineral package to get the crop all the important minerals so the plants

photosynthesize at a high rate.

Consult a Dryland Agriculture Expert

Keystone Bio-Ag is a team built around sustainable agriculture. Helping farmers in the western parts of the United States cultivate wheat and other crops in dryland conditions is a passion for our consultants. If you are looking for ways to improve your yield this season, contact one of our regenerative ag consultants and they will develop a plan with you.