Row Width Influences Wheat Yield, But Has Little Effect on Wheat Quality

Abstract

Growers are interested in wide‐row wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production due to reductions in equipment inventory (lack of grain drill) and to allow intercropping of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] into wheat. A trial was established during the 2012–2013 and 2013–2014 growing seasons in Wayne County and Wood County, Ohio, to evaluate the effect of row width and cultivar on soft red winter wheat grain yield and quality. Treatments included two row widths (7.5‐ and 15‐inch) and four wheat cultivars (Rupp 935, Rupp 972, Syngenta SY483, and Syngenta W1104). Wheat grain yield was reduced when grown in 15‐inch row width compared with 7.5‐inch row width in three out of four site‐years by 2 to 15% depending on location, year, and wheat cultivar. A row width × cultivar interaction occurred at only one out of four site‐years, indicating that yield reductions associated with row width tended to be similar among the four wheat cultivars evaluated in this study. Row width slightly altered test weight, flour yield, flour softness, and flour protein; however, the effect was quite small and likely insignificant to the baking industry.