Time to Enroll Youth in 4-H Wheat Variety Plot Program
June 30, 2026
Submitted by Kelsey Nordyke
The 2026-27 4-H Wheat Variety Plot program begins in Fall, 2026 with planting, and wraps up in Fall, 2027 with the State 4-H Wheat Variety Plot displays at the Kansas State Fair.
The 4-H Wheat Variety Plot program is open to all 4-H members enrolled in the 4-H agronomy project who have an interest in studying how different wheat varieties perform in their part of the state. 4-H members are encouraged to work closely with their local agriculture agent and/or an adult mentor.
The program is meant to be a hands-on experience for youth and set in a similar way as local extension wheat variety plots. Local extension agents are encouraged to reach out to youth to promote the program and recruit participants.
4-H members should contact their local extension office by July 15 for information with enrollment forms, which are due to the state 4-H office by Aug. 1. State officials say the deadline is necessary so that they can have enough seed and metal signs available for extension agents and leaders to pick up at the designated locations in the fall.
Extension agents should complete registration here. New participants will receive a free large plot sign and five individual variety signs. Returning members receive updated wheat variety names on sticky paper to place on existing metal signs. These will be distributed when the wheat is picked up.
There will be no cost for the program in 2026-27 since the five varieties are again being sponsored by commercial companies.
This year's participants who are getting ready to harvest their plots should be planning their county fair display for possible qualifying for the Kansas State Fair entry in the 4-H and FFA Showcase building. Wheat variety displays can also be entered in the 4-H Wheat Expo, Aug. 4 in El Dorado.
More info about the 4-H Wheat Expo is available at https://bit.ly/4hwheatexpo.
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