Medium and Late Varieties of Wheat
Wheat is one of the most important cereal crops in the world, and it is grown in various countries worldwide. There are different varieties of wheat, and they can be classified based on their maturity time. Wheat varieties that have maturity time between 115 to 140 days, are known as medium and late varieties. These wheat varieties grow well in areas with moderate rainfall between 400 to 600 mm per annum.
Here are some important information about medium and late varieties of wheat:
1. Growth Habit
Medium and late varieties of wheat have a taller growth habit compared to early varieties, and they grow to a height of around 80-110 cm. They also have a longer vegetative phase, which allows them to produce a higher amount of biomass compared to early varieties.
2. Grain Yield
Medium and late varieties of wheat have the potential to produce higher grain yields compared to early varieties. This is due to their longer vegetative phase, which allows them to accumulate more nutrients and produce more tillers. The grain yield of medium and late varieties typically range from 3-5 tons per hectare.
3. Adaptability
Medium and late varieties of wheat are adaptable to a wide range of environmental conditions and can grow well in different soil types, ranging from sandy to clay soils. They are also resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses such as disease, pests, and drought.
4. Nutritional Value
Medium and late varieties of wheat have high nutritional value and are rich in protein and fiber. They also contain essential minerals such as iron, zinc, and magnesium, which are vital for good health.
5. Examples of Varieties
Some popular medium and late varieties of wheat include Kiritati, Hawkeye, Cacique, and Anza. These varieties are widely grown in different regions globally and have been proven to be high-yielding and resistant to various environmental stresses.
In conclusion, medium and late varieties of wheat are essential for global food security, as they play a significant role in ensuring reliable and sustainable food production. These varieties have longer vegetative phases, higher grain yields, and are adaptable to different environmental conditions, making them suitable for different regions globally.