Effect of temperature on survival and yield components of field‐acclimated soft red winter wheat

Abstract

AbstractFreeze tolerance is greatest in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) during winter dormancy and decreases as the plant develops in the spring. Above‐average temperatures during the winter and spring have resulted in wheat resuming growth earlier in the season, exposing a less freeze‐tolerant plant to an increased risk of spring freeze events. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of temperature on seed yield components and biomass of field‐acclimated winter wheat at Feekes 6, 8, and 10.5.1 growth stages. Five soft red winter wheat cultivars were transplanted from the field into pots at each Feekes growth stage identified above. Plants were placed into freeze chambers with temperature treatments ranging from −16 to 4°C. Plants were exposed to the treatment temperature for 15 min and placed in a cooler maintained at 4°C. After 20 h, plants were moved to an open‐air greenhouse and grown to maturity. At maturity, yield component and biomass data were recorded. Temperature treatments of −10, −7, and −3°C reduced seed weight at Feekes 6, 8, and 10.5.1 growth stages, respectively, compared with plants held at 4°C. Plant biomass was reduced at Feekes 6 and 8 growth stages at −10 and −4°C, respectively. These guidelines will help producers better estimate the potential value of a freeze‐damaged wheat crop.