As wheat is one of the most important cereal crops globally, its planting and harvesting time significantly affects the quality and quantity of the yield. Wheat is generally classified into early and late varieties based on their harvesting season.
Late varieties of wheat take about four to six months to mature, and they are usually planted in late autumn and early winter. This provides an advantage in cases of late-season rain and allows the crop to avoid frost and snow cover during the winter months. Furthermore, the late varieties have a higher yield potential than the early varieties.
One of the most popular late varieties of wheat is the hard red winter wheat, which is grown in the United States, specifically in the Great Plains region. The planting period of this type of wheat is usually late September, and harvest occurs between July and August the following year. The hard red winter wheat is considered ideal for baking because of its high protein content and gluten strength.
Another late variety of wheat is the durum wheat, which is predominantly grown in the Mediterranean and North Africa. The planting period for durum wheat ranges from November to January, and the harvesting goes from June to July the following year. Durum wheat is mainly used for making pasta, couscous, and some Middle Eastern bread types. This wheat variety is known for its golden color and higher protein content.
Late varieties of wheat require a high level of attention and management during cultivation since they are grown through harsh weather conditions. However, the final yield is usually higher, making it a better option for commercial production. Planting late wheat varieties can also provide farmers with an added financial benefit, as it gives them an opportunity to rotate their crops to ensure soil health, thus ensuring higher production in the long run.
In conclusion, late varieties of wheat have a greater advantage over early types due to their higher yield potential, as well as their resistance to frost and snow. Though they have a longer growth period, the benefits obtained from late wheat varieties are numerous, and many farmers prefer to grow them. Choosing the right type of wheat for cultivation depends on several factors, including weather conditions, soil health, and market demand.