Wheat is considered one of the most important food crops known to humanity, as it is used in most of the foods we consume daily. It has been cultivated worldwide for thousands of years. If you are interested in growing wheat, continue reading this article to learn everything related to the best time to plant wheat, suitable growing locations, and other essential information.
Wheat Planting Time
The planting time of wheat varies depending on its type.
Winter wheat is planted in the autumn, where it grows until early winter and then enters dormancy. Warmer temperatures in spring stimulate new growth. It is worth noting that seed heads usually form after about two months. Some farmers prefer this type of wheat because it is easier and less expensive to maintain. Winter wheat is also commonly grown as a cover crop, similar to clover, making it suitable for open fields and large plots.
Spring wheat, on the other hand, is planted in the spring and matures in mid to late summer. This type of wheat is more tolerant of dry conditions than winter wheat, but it typically grows to a shorter height.
What Is the Best Location for Growing Wheat?
Below are the environmental conditions required for wheat to grow successfully:
- Sunlight: Wheat should be planted in a location that receives full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce a healthy yield. One reason winter wheat grows more slowly is that it receives fewer daylight hours.
- Temperature: Temperature is a key factor when planting wheat, as it is usually planted in either spring or autumn. Spring wheat can tolerate higher temperatures, while autumn-planted wheat grows in cooler conditions. Therefore, it is important to match the wheat variety with the appropriate temperature range.
- Humidity and Rainfall: Heavy rainfall or prolonged high humidity can negatively affect wheat growth. If summers in your region are humid for extended periods, consider planting wheat in elevated or windy locations, which helps plants stay drier.
- Soil: Wheat grows best in clay or loamy soil that is well-drained, as poor drainage can lead to excessive moisture problems.
Types of Wheat That Can Be Grown
Below are some common wheat varieties suitable for cultivation:
- Hard Red Wheat: Bread made from this variety is considered one of the best types of bread.
- Soft Red Wheat: This type is used to produce specialty flour for pastries, and bread made from it is also of good quality.
- White Wheat: White wheat is commonly grown in the Pacific Northwest and is used for bread flour. It is known for having a milder and sweeter flavor than red wheat.
- Durum Wheat: This variety is used to make pasta flour and is often grown in high plains regions.
