2026 Planting Guide
Fall cropWhen to Plant Wheat in California
Complete guide to growing wheat in California with optimal planting dates, recommended varieties, soil requirements, pest management, and harvest timing. Data sourced from USDA and state extension services.
Monthly Planting Calendar
Visual overview of the wheat growing season in California. Red diamond markers indicate frost date boundaries.
Quick Facts
Min. Soil Temp
40-55°F (4-13°C)
Growing Period
150-210 days
From planting to harvest
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date
First Fall Frost
December 1
Harvest before this date
Monthly Task Timeline
Month-by-month guide for managing wheat in California.
January
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
February - April
Grow & MonitorIrrigate as needed, scout for pests, apply side-dress fertilizer, and manage weeds.
May - June
HarvestCheck maturity indicators, schedule equipment, harvest at optimal moisture content.
July - October
Off-seasonCover crop planting, soil testing, equipment maintenance, and planning for next season.
November - December
PlantPrepare soil, apply starter fertilizer, and sow seeds at recommended depth and spacing.
Best Wheat Varieties for California
These varieties have proven performance in California's climate and soil conditions. Always source certified seed from reputable dealers.
| # | Variety | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Patwin | California climate |
| 2 | Express | California climate |
| 3 | UC-approved varieties | California climate |
Growing Tips for California
Region-specific advice from agricultural extension services and experienced California farmers.
Primarily durum and hard red wheat in Sacramento/San Joaquin Valley
Irrigated wheat yields 80-100 bu/acre
Plant into moisture after fall rains begin
Pest & Disease Watch
Monitor for these threats throughout the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recommended.
Hessian fly
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Aphids
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Armyworm
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Wheat midge
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Cereal leaf beetle
Scout regularly and use integrated pest management
Companion Planting
These plants grow well alongside wheat, improving pest control, pollination, and nutrient availability.
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost
February 15
Wait until after this date before planting frost-sensitive crops outdoors.
First Fall Frost
December 1
Plan to complete harvest of warm-season crops before this date arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to plant wheat in California?
The optimal planting window for wheat in California is November 1 to January 15. Soil temperature should reach at least 40-55°F (4-13°C) before planting. The total growing period is 150-210 days.
What varieties of wheat grow best in California?
The best varieties for California include Patwin, Express, UC-approved varieties. These varieties are adapted to local climate and soil conditions and have proven performance records.
When can I harvest wheat in California?
The harvest window for wheat in California is typically May 15 to June 30. The crop takes 150-210 days from planting to reach maturity.
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Data Sources
Data sourced from USDA NASS Crop Planting Dates, California Cooperative Extension Service, and NOAA frost date records. Last updated: March 2026.
Planting dates are averages and may vary by county, elevation, and local microclimate. Always consult your local extension office for the most precise recommendations.