The Wheat Grain “Picks” List is more than just a collection of high-yield varieties; it reflects extensive research conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension agronomists and the Texas A&M AgriLife Research wheat team. This year, their evaluation covered 46 trials across 31 locations in Texas, accounting for a wide range of environmental factors including drought, temperature fluctuations, and disease pressures.
“Closing out one season and preparing for the next is always an exciting time,” said Dr. Brandon Gerrish, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service statewide small grains specialist. “Our Picks list is based on a three-year running average to ensure we’re recommending varieties that consistently perform well, despite the unpredictable conditions Texas farmers face.”
Understanding the Growing Conditions
The 2023 planting season began under extreme drought conditions across much of Texas, highlighting the importance of selecting varieties that can withstand harsh environments. Recent thunderstorms have provided some relief, but the season’s broad spectrum of growing conditions—from nearly 52 inches of rain in Greenville to just 1.5 inches in Dumas—demonstrates the importance of region-specific recommendations.
“This year, we saw very different growing conditions across the state,” Gerrish noted. “That’s why our picks are region-based. While some varieties perform well in multiple regions, it’s rare to find one that excels statewide.”
Highlights from the 2023-2024 Season
The 2023-2024 season introduced several new varieties that performed exceptionally well in trials, offering producers fresh options as they plan their next crop.
- TAM 116: This variety impressed across the board, ranking in the top yield group at all five High Plains irrigated trial locations. TAM 116’s consistent performance earned it a spot on the Picks list.
- High Cotton: An Oklahoma State University release, High Cotton showed outstanding results in its second year of testing, ranking first in the Blacklands, second in the High Plains irrigated trials, and third in South Texas.
- Amigos and GoWheat 9216H: These new Texas A&M AgriLife releases have demonstrated strong resistance to leaf, stripe, and stem rust, as well as Hessian fly resistance. Amigos, in particular, showed promise for both grain and forage production, especially in South Texas and the Blacklands.
- Bob Dole: This AgriPro variety continued its strong performance in the Blacklands, ranking first in the McGregor forage trial.
- DynaGro7322: An awnless variety from Texas A&M, DynaGro7322 is ideal for producers looking for a versatile crop that can be grazed out or baled for forage.
As Texas wheat producers prepare for the 2024 planting season, the Wheat Grain “Picks” List serves as an invaluable resource. By selecting varieties that have proven to perform well under Texas’ challenging growing conditions, farmers can make informed decisions that enhance both yield and crop quality. With several new varieties showing promise, the future looks bright for Texas wheat production.
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