The Importance of Proper Wheat Staging

For wheat, how important is staging when it comes to overall plant health?  Jim Vandecovering with BASF discussed that topic recently in Spokane.  He said it helps when growers look at their wheat, as small factories, with a receiving line, assembly line and a warehouse.

“Really, the wheat plant is no different.  We need to think about the receiving station or the receiving part of that factory as the root system in a lot of cases to really plant a high quality seed that has a good seed treatment on it, with a variety that’s adapted for the area for high yield.”

He noted that’s where technology can give growers across the Northwest an advantage, over different portions of the country or the world.  Vandecovering added farming with a progressive state of mind is vital in the 21^st century.

“Especially in the economy that we’re in right now, with wheat prices, it’s very important.  So, one of the things that I tried to get across is these stages are critical for development of the crop but also for inputs and if you are off in terms of timing that can sometimes can have a negative impact on that crop and so its important to understand those growth stages and what can and cannot be applied.”

Vandecovering noted consumers need to know that growers are practicing the best stewardship practices available not only to maximize yields but also to raise a safe and affordable food.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com