A revised version of the publication “Replanting or Late Planting Crops” could be helpful to barley producers.

“In addition to reducing yield, late planting can accentuate the challenge of growing barley to malt quality,” says Joel Ransom, North Dakota State University Extension Service cereal grains agronomist. “Late planting increases the likelihood of high temperatures during grain filling that can reduce plumpness and increase grain protein.”

Ransom suggests seeding on the heavy side, which may improve yield slightly in the late-planted barley, though this probably will not increase the level of plumpness. Growers should back off on their nitrogen rate when planting late to help moderate protein content.

“Some viral diseases, such as barley yellow dwarf and wheat streak mosaic, can be more problematic in late-planted fields when the insects that vector these diseases are more plentiful and active,” Ransom says. “Carefully monitor the barley crop for aphids that can vector the barley yellow dwarf virus. Apply insecticide when aphid populations are building to reduce the incidence of barley yellow dwarf.”

Ransom also serves on the Institute of Barley and Malt Sciences (IBMS) Extension Team as a team leader. The IBMS has its headquarters at NDSU and seeks to provide reliable, high-quality, targeted research and education for U.S. barley producers and domestic and international malting and brewing industries at a single site. NDSU IBMS Extension teams advise the IBMS staff on barley education and research efforts.

“Replanting or Late Planting Crops” is available online at http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/plantsci/crops/a934.html or from a county NDSU Extension Service office.

NDSU Agriculture Communication