Grain that forms when frost occurs at flowering is often plump and makes good quality seed. However, when frost occurs during grain fill, variable effects can impact on the germination and establishment of these damaged grains.

Even after grading, frosted grain can have 20–50% lower crop establishment than unfrosted grain the following season. As a result growers need to retain more seed than normal, sow into an optimum seed bed and increase seeding rate to compensate for lower crop germination and vigour of frosted grain.

See more tips to mazimise potenital fo retained seed.

Read the Managing frost risk tips and tactics fact sheet for more information.