By Andi Anderson
The 2025 wheat harvest is now complete across Michigan, with growers reporting strong yields despite weather challenges and regional differences in crop quality. Thanks to the wheat watchers who shared reports throughout the season, the statewide picture highlights both successes and concerns.
In Southeast Michigan, a Monroe County grower reported a 110 bushel per acre average, with test weights between 58.5–60 pounds. Overall satisfaction was high.
In the Thumb region, one Huron County farmer near Elkton averaged 108 bushels per acre. Sandy soils struggled with lower yields, and while test weights averaged 59–61, heat during grain fill cut potential. Falling numbers ranged widely from 275–660.
In Central Michigan, Gratiot County fields averaged 100 bushels per acre, with yields ranging from 75–140. Early harvest test weights reached 60–62 but dropped to 55–59 later in the season after rain delays.
Falling numbers for red wheat held in the 350–385 range, while white wheat slipped to around 200 after repeated rains. Despite this, quality and yields were described as “exceptional.”
In West Central Michigan, Kent County growers harvested mostly above 90 bushels per acre. Test weights varied from 52–62, with red wheat falling numbers above 300. White wheat ranged more widely, from 130 to over 300. Growers noted that fungicide applications to manage head scab were worthwhile this year. No reports were received from Southwest or Northern Michigan.
According to Dennis Pennington, wheat systems specialist, planting conditions were generally timely in fall 2024, though some fields lacked soil moisture.
Snow cover during winter protected wheat from extreme cold, though snow molds caused localized damage. Spring was slow to warm, which allowed tillering, while powdery mildew pressure prompted T1 fungicide use.
Few stripe rust issues appeared this season, but high winds during grain fill caused lodging in high-yield fields. Late-season rains led to preharvest sprout problems in some areas, dropping falling numbers below 225. West central Michigan also saw reports of stinking smut, which can cause load rejection.
Despite heat during final grain fill reducing potential, yields were strong across most of the state, with good overall crop quality. While challenges such as lodging, insect pressure, and rainfall variability were noted, growers still harvested an exceptional 2025 wheat crop by Michigan standards.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nicexray
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Wheat