Wheat nutrient application timing

The timing of nutrient application must be synchronised with the peak demands of the developing plants. The peak nutrient demand will come during the construction phase of development, with the macronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphate, Potassium) and major nutrients (Magnesium, Calcium, Sulphur) being required in the largest quantity.

However, whilst being required in small quantities, micronutrient deficiencies can have a macro, detrimental, effect on yield. Nutrients applied not coinciding with crop uptake will be at risk of loss through runoff, leaching and volatilisation.

Winter wheat key application times

Stem extension

As the plants begin to grow in the spring (6-7 months after sowing), daily demand for nutrients will accelerate as biomass develops. Demands for nitrogen, phosphate, potassium and sulphur will all be high so multiple crop nutrient applications should be made to coincide with this demand. This rapid growth and development will also require higher rates of micronutrient uptake. Transient deficiencies may result which should be addressed with foliar micronutrients (YaraVita products). Manganese, zinc, copper and magnesium should all be managed through this period of growth.

Grain filling 

The crop production phase, when grain is set and filled, requires a healthy green canopy to continually supply the products of photosynthesis to the developing grains. Applications of nutrients can be made to maximise the number of grains that set and survive. Leaf nitrogen levels must be maintained through to anthesis, and applications of nutrients such as phosphate, magnesium and boron should be considered to maximise yield.

Spring wheat key application times

Establishment / Tillering

Spring wheat has a much shorter growing season with a limited establishment and leaf / tillering development phase. It will produce up to 8 or 9 leaves and 3 to 4 tillers before moving into the stem extension phase. Early nutrition is therefore essential to maximise early growth rates, establishing ground cover for light interception. Nitrogen, Phosphate, Potassium and Sulphur will give a healthy, vigorous plant population during the first month following sowing. These nutrients can either be placed in the seedbed or broadcast at planting.

Stem extension

As the plants continues its spring growth demand for nutrients will accelerate as biomass develops. Demands for nitrogen, phosphate, potassium and sulphur will all be high so additional crop nutrient applications should be made to coincide with this demand. With such rapid growth rates transient deficiencies can occur of the micronutrients so application during this growth phase should be considered.

Grain Filling

The crop production phase, when grain is set and filled, requires a healthy green canopy to continually supply the products of photosynthesis to the developing grains. Applications of nutrients can be made to maximise the number of grains that set and survive. Leaf nitrogen levels must be maintained through to anthesis, and applications of nutrients such as phosphate, magnesium and boron should be considered to maximise yield.

The entire growing season of spring wheat will be between 90 and 120 days, compared to 190 to 210 days for winter wheat.