Wheat
Triticum spp. · Poaceae
Description
Wheat is a cereal grain that belongs to the grass family. The plant is cultivated worldwide and is one of the most important staple foods for a large portion of the global population. Wheat grains are ground into flour and used to make a variety of food products, including bread, pasta, and pastries. The plant has long slender stems and produces spikes of grain heads.
Where it Grows
Planting
When to Plant
Wheat is typically planted in either the fall (winter wheat) or spring (spring wheat), depending on the climate conditions and specific variety being grown.
How to Plant
Wheat is usually sown using conventional drill rows. The soil should be well-prepared, with a pH level of around 6.0 to 7.0. Seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 to 2 inches.
Planting Calendar
- Sow outdoors: 2–6 weeks before the last frost
- Autumn planting: 4–8 weeks before the first autumn frost
- Germination: 5–10 days
- Sow outdoors: Feb 27 – Apr 2
- Autumn planting: Aug 30 – Oct 3
- Harvest: May 28 – Aug 31
Care
Watering
Wheat requires moderate watering, approximately 12 to 20 inches throughout the growing season. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent disease.
Weeding
Regular weeding is essential to reduce competition for nutrients and water. Mulching can assist in preventing weed growth.
Mulching
Applying mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature during the growing season.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is usually done at planting time with a balanced fertilizer. Additional applications of nitrogen may be necessary as the plants develop.
Thinning
Thinning is typically not necessary; however, if seedlings are too crowded, they can be selectively removed to promote better air circulation and growth.
Pest Management
Monitoring for pests such as aphids and armyworms is crucial. Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques should be employed to minimize chemical usage.
Harvesting
Harvesting typically occurs when the wheat grains are hard and the moisture content is around 14-20%. Timing is important to avoid loss from shattering or mold.
Growing in Containers
Grows well in a pot of at least 15 litres (4.0 US gallons), with drainage holes. Best kept outdoors.
Propagation
From seed
- Choose seed of a wheat variety suited to your climate and planting season.
- Sow winter wheat in autumn or spring wheat in early spring.
- Plant grains about 2–3 cm deep in a sunny, prepared bed.
- Water gently and keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge.
Companion Plants
Good neighbors
- Clover: Underseeded clover covers the soil after wheat harvest and adds nitrogen for the next crop.
- Peas: In mixed sowings, wheat stalks can support peas, whose residues add nitrogen to the soil.
Common Problems
- Fusarium Head Blight
- Leaf Rust
- Aphids and Other Pests
- Root Rot (caused by fungi)
Pests and diseases: Rust, Powdery Mildew, Aphids, Birds, Crown Rot
Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits
- High in carbohydrates
- Good source of protein
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium
Nutritional Composition (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 339 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 71.0 g |
| Protein | 13.0 g |
| Fat | 2.5 g |
| Fiber | 12.2 g |
| Iron | 3.6 mg |
| Magnesium | 107 mg |
Varieties
- Hard Red Winter Wheat
- Hard Red Spring Wheat
- Soft Red Winter Wheat
- White Wheat
- Durum Wheat
Health Benefits
- Supports heart health
- Aids in digestion and weight management
- May help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes
Fun Facts
- Wheat is one of the oldest cultivated crops, with evidence of domestication dating back over 10,000 years.
- There are over 25,000 different types of wheat cultivated worldwide.
- Wheat plants can grow to a height of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters).