Wheat crop is one of the most significant cereal crops worldwide. It plays a vital role in the diet of many people and animals worldwide. The wheat crop is grown in various regions across the globe because of its adaptability to diverse climates and soil conditions, making it an essential food and economic commodity. Numerous wheat varieties have been developed and improved over the years to meet the needs of farmers and consumers. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most improved varieties of wheat crops.
1. Dwarf Wheat – Dwarf Wheat has been the most significant development in modern wheat breeding. Norman E. Borlaug, a renowned plant breeder, introduced dwarf wheat during the green revolution. The Dwarf Wheat was bred to grow shorter and stronger, allowing it to support larger grains and increase yields. Furthermore, the shorter height of the stalk made the plant more resistant to wind and rain, which helped to prevent crop damage.
2. High Yield Wheat – High Yield Wheat was developed to increase grain yields per acre. The variety was bred to reach maturity earlier, allowing for a shorter growing season and more frequent cropping cycles. High Yield Wheat is now widely cultivated in many countries, especially in areas where the growing season is short.
3. Disease-Resistant Wheat – Disease-resistant wheat varieties are bred with resistance genes that protect them against common wheat diseases, such as rust and powdery mildew. The varieties have proven indispensable in areas where disease outbreaks are frequent, and the use of fungicides is challenging due to environmental issues.
4. Heat Tolerant Wheat – Heat-tolerant wheat has been developed to withstand high temperatures and drought stress. This type of wheat is often grown in arid regions where temperatures can reach up to 50°C. The heat-tolerant varieties have been bred to have stronger roots that can access moisture that is deep in the soil.
5. Gluten-Free Wheat – Gluten intolerance is a widespread disease, and scientists have developed gluten-free wheat to address the problem. Gluten-free varieties contain genes that create lower levels of gluten protein, making them safe for people who are sensitive to gluten.
In conclusion, the wheat crop is of great importance worldwide, and plant breeders continue to develop and improve the wheat varieties to meet the needs of different regions, climates, and consumers. The improved wheat varieties listed above have enabled farmers to harvest higher yields, stopping crop damages caused by weather or diseases. Additionally, the wheat crop continues to play an essential role in global food security, which is vital for sustainable living.