Soils at 2-inch depths are staying above freezing so far around the state. The Kentucky Mesonet records soil temperatures at certain locations. For the sites we checked, all the soils are still above 32°F. For wheat seeded at proper depths, the roots and growing points are insulated well and should not be damaged. The tillers and leaves above the soil surface have largely been protected by the snow cover. Tillers and leaves exposed to temperatures below 32°F may eventually display some freeze burn, but will not be severely damaged unless exposed to temperatures well below 32°F for several hours. The table we have used suggests that tillers need to be exposed to temperatures at or below 12°F for 2 hours or more before severe damage is expected. However, that table has not always predicted wheat response to freezing temperatures in Kentucky. No accurate assessments of wheat response can be made until the wheat experiences five to seven days of 40°F or more.

As snow has melted or will melt in some areas, and the cold snap is back in place for a few days, we will continue to monitor these soil temperatures, air temperatures and wheat responses to them.

On the Kentucky Mesonet website, hover over “Data” and in the dropdown menu select “Soil”. On the left of the screen is another dropdown menu for “Site”. Select the site you want. Not all sites have soil temperatures. Then select “soil temperature”. You can also select the time interval, such as 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months or 6 months.

Citation: Lee C. 2025. Soil Temperatures Remain Above Freezing Across Kentucky. Kentucky Field Crops News, Vol 1, Issue 1. University of Kentucky, January 17, 2025.