Protein Issues

   Dave Franzen, NDSU Extension Soil Specialist, has written a detailed article on the possible reasons that the state is experiencing low protein levels in the 2009 wheat crop. His detailed article is in the September 17, 2009 issue of the NDSU Crop & Pest Report.

    If you do not receive this weekly report it can be found by searching for "NDSU Crop and Pest Report." Once at the site, you can check on "Current Issues."

    In summary, the possible reasons for the very low protein that Franzen discusses in the article are:

1. High early season rainfall and flooding;

2. Questionable field conditions for incorporation of urea or application of anhydrous ammonia;

3. The continued mistake of applying urea to the soil surface in no-till fields;

4. Continued wetness of fields through June in many areas of the valley;

5. Our most scab-tolerant wheat varieties are not stellar protein varieties, and;

6. Anticipation of lower yields with later seeding dates.