North Dakota cereal crops face freeze damage concerns

By Scout Nelson

This winter in North Dakota has been unusually harsh for forage crops, such as rye and triticale, due to the lack of protective snow cover and extreme temperature fluctuations.

James Rogers, a North Dakota State University-Extension forage crops production specialist, highlights the resilience and challenges faced by these crops under current conditions.

Rye, known for its robust cold tolerance, and triticale, a hybrid with intermediate cold resistance, are staple winter cereals grown in the region.

Rogers explains that while rye can withstand temperatures as low as 38 degrees Fahrenheit, both crops are currently threatened by recent temperature spikes followed by sharp declines, which have led to concerns over plant damage and survival prospects.

Research conducted at the North Dakota State University North Central Research Extension Center in Minot illustrates the potential impacts of these temperature shifts. A study involving rye and winter wheat demonstrated visible differences in freeze damage.

Rye showed more resilience, with some browning of leaves but continued signs of healthy new growth and white, healthy roots. In contrast, winter wheat displayed more severe freeze damage, with some roots turning dark and brown, indicating a greater extent of damage.

The research highlights the importance of the growth point in these plants, situated just above the crown at soil level, which remains protected and vital for recovery post-freeze. As spring temperatures begin to rise, the vulnerability of these crops increases, particularly when the growth point elevates.

Rogers remains cautiously optimistic, noting that while it is still early to determine the full extent of the damage, ongoing monitoring and proper management could mitigate severe losses.

He advises producers to closely monitor the growth points of crops as temperatures warm, particularly watching for when the hollow stem beneath the growth point reaches the diameter of a dime, a critical phase for assessing potential damage.

As North Dakota's farmers navigate these challenges, the resilience of their cereal crops against freezing conditions continues to be a crucial area of focus in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and food security in the region.