Albert Lea Seed House Oat Production Guide | Page 6

Field Selection
There are multiple things to consider when selecting a field for oat production. This guide covers some of the important items but there will always be additional factors to consider.
Field selection is an important step to growing a successful oat crop. Oats should not be placed on marginal pieces of
land and be expected to perform well. They should receive the same respect and attention that any other crop would
receive. Proper management will provide the best potential for maximum return.
Fields relatively free of wild oats should be selected as wild oats are hard to remove through mechanical and chemical controls. Lack of control of wild oats will lead to a reduction in final grain quality. Please refer to Grain Millers
Quality Specifications to determine the allowable level of wild oats. Use careful consideration before applying herbicides if oats are to follow in the rotation. Minimal or no herbicide residue carryover is best; herbicide residue can
diminish germination of the crop as well as grain quality attributes. Other crops within the rotation on a field are
important when making this decision. Oats, if possible, should not be rotated back to back with other cereal grains.
Back to back rotation with other cereal grains increases the risk of plant disease and weed pressure. More desirable
rotational crops include: canola, hayfields, soybeans, and/or other legumes. These crops give