growing winter wheat

Seed size can vary between different and similar varieties of the same crop from field to field and year to year depending on many factors such as growing conditions, soil conditions, and integrated pest management practices. Because of this variation in seed size, the number of plans in a pound or a bushel of a seed is also highly variable.

The proper way to calculate seeding rate is determined using target plants per square foot in conjunction with 1000 kernel weight (TKW) and seedling survival rate. Higher seeding rates create a denser, more uniform stand and are especially important in high moisture areas and are critical to winter survival, crop competitiveness, and yield potential. Idea target target plant stand for winter wheat is 30-35 plants per square foot.

To calculate seeding rate:

• Seeding rate (lb/ac)=target plant population/ft2 X 1000 kernel wt. (g)/seedling survival rate (0.70) / 10
• TKW in grams is used as the average number
 of seeds per pound varies
• Seedling survival rate of 0.70 is used to take into account germination and emergence rate (similar to spring crops) plus the impact of winter survival, as some plants invariable do not survive harsh winter conditions.