Impact of simulated hail damage at different growth stages and canopy positions on rainfed and irrigated winter wheat

Abstract Producers and crop insurance providers will benefit from an accurate assessment of yield reduction after hailstorms that considers management, weather, growth stage, impacted part (hail affected canopy position). But, limited information is available. The main objectives this study were to quantify wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) losses associated with simulated hail damage timing position. was conducted in two locations (Garden City [irrigated], Manhattan [rainfed]) Kansas, 2018 2020 2016 2018, respectively. Treatments incomplete factorial combination stem bending at seven flowering stages, above or below the flag leaf a nontreated control. Results indicated 11%–22% due 32%–52% impact under irrigated conditions. Within high‐yielding rainfed environment, caused up 20% compared In low‐yielding environments, mainly dependent on stage occurrence. Hail Feekes 11.2–11.4 stages decreased by 20%–50% 10.0–10.5.4 50%–70% We provide empirical evidence indicates interaction effect in‐season water position estimates loss should consider these factors.