Short Wheat May Require Combine Adjustments to Maximize Yield, CLAAS Expert Says

Matthew Poling with CLAAS joins us to discuss harvest strategies for a below-average wheat crop and combine adjustments growers should consider.

OMAHA, NEB. (RFD NEWS)Winter wheat growers facing a below-average crop this season may need to make adjustments ahead of harvest as poor growing conditions create new challenges in the field.

Matthew Poling, product specialist with CLAAS, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss key harvest considerations and how growers can optimize combine performance in a shorter-than-normal wheat crop.

Poling explained the initial adjustments he recommends for producers preparing to harvest a short wheat crop, including considerations for header setup and machine operation before entering the field. He also discussed how the combined settings may need to be adjusted as the crop moves through the machine to reduce losses and improve efficiency.

In addition, Poling addressed whether a lighter crop translates into less wear and tear on equipment or whether certain conditions can create additional challenges for harvest machinery. He also highlighted the importance of proper machine maintenance and monitoring throughout the harvest season.

Finally, Poling shared an overview of the support and resources CLAAS provides to growers as they prepare for harvest, including service, technology, and product assistance designed to help maximize performance in varying crop conditions.

LEARN MORE: www.CLAAS.com

Related Stories
Dr. Robert Ellis joins us to discuss economic challenges in agriculture, available resources for farmers, and ways producers can evaluate practices to strengthen their operations.
USDA’s first 2026/27 outlook shows tighter supplies across several markets, led by wheat, corn, cotton, rice, beef, and sugar.
Hulse discusses leadership, college life and what members can expect at this year’s convention.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

K-State’s Dr. Gregg Ibendahl breaks down the impacts of the Middle East ceasefire on energy markets and input costs, and what farmers should watch in the weeks ahead.
CME Group Executive Director of Ag Research Fred Seamon discusses the recent rise in farmer sentiment highlighted in the March Ag Economy Barometer report.
Faster approvals could speed projects, but may face scrutiny.
Data centers may compete with farms for key resources.
Catch the double-episode premiere of Prairie Prophets, Tuesday night at 9 PM ET on RFD Network and RFD+
Strong corn and China-driven demand support the pace of U.S. grain exports. RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses Canada-China agricultural trade talks.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.