Kernel discoloration and downgrading in spring wheat varieties in western Canada

Abstract

Kernel discolorations of wheat (Triticum spp.), as observed in black point, smudge, penetrated smudge, red smudge, and fusarium-damaged kernels, are important downgrading factors in western Canada. To determine varietal differences in the incidence of kernel discoloration and its effect on kernel grading, grain samples were taken from four Canada Western Amber Durum wheat varieties (one unregistered and three registered varieties) and six Canada Western Red Spring common wheat cultivars in 24 environments (during 4 years at six sites) in western Canada. The incidence of kernel discoloration resulted in kernel downgrading in 15 environments. In these environments, smudge damage was the major downgrading factor, followed by fusarium-damaged kernels. Penetrated smudge and red smudge were observed only in durum wheat varieties in the black-soil zone. The incidence of black point was generally not high enough to cause downgrading. For durum wheat, the unregistered variety DT 369 had the highest occurrence of downgrading, which was mainly associated with smudge damage. 'Plenty' had the lowest occurrence of smudge downgrading, but the highest fusarium downgrading. 'Saunders' and 'Garnet' had the least downgrading frequency of the common wheat cultivars.