Research on Jointed Goatgrass In Kansas

Dr. Phil Stahlman, Weed Scientist at the Kansas State University Ag Research Center in Hays (ARCH), has been heavily involved in several aspects of jointed goatgrass research.  Stahlman has been involved with other scientists over the past few years to evaluate the best management practices for controlling jointed goatgrass in the Central Great Plains.  Recently, Dr. Tony White joined Stahlman's research group in Hays to conduct jointed goatgrass research.   

Individual cultural practices including crop rotation, fallow weed control, and wheat cultivar have been integrated into Dr. Stahlman's project.Stahlman states, "In a two-year wheat-fallow rotation, JGG populations are maintained.  A three-year wheat-grain sorghum-fallow rotation helps manage jointed goatgrass, but is not sufficient for control.  He adds that a four-year wheat-grain sorghum-sunflower-fallow rotation typically provides better control.

When asked to compare conventional tillage vs. no-till for managing jointed goatgrass in these plots, Stahlman stated, "Tillage is not helping.  We receive adequate precipitation in Kansas to germinate jointed goatgrass on the soil surface.  Our research shows no advantage so far for tillage as a control measure."

"However, rapid establishment and fast growth of winter wheat may help to control jointed goatgrass" He explained.  "We are trying to find out if Jagger competes better than TAM 107."  Jagger combines faster fall growth and taller mature plant height compared to TAM 107.  "Most years jointed goatgrass spikelet production is two to three times more in the TAM 107 than in Jagger."

Stahlman, White, and KSU wheat breeders are assessing the risk of moving herbicide resistance genes into jointed goatgrass from the herbicide resistant wheat.  This project will begin in the fall of 2001 and run for six years.  "We will deliberately abuse the system in our research trials," said Stahlman.  "We want to know what happens when the system is not properly used."

These projects are currently being funded by the National Jointed Goatgrass Research Program.  To find out more about the research conducted by Dr. Phil Stahlman please contact him at stahlman@ksu.edu or contact Doug Schmale, JGG Extension Coordinator.