Soft Red Winter Wheat Cultivars Research Articles

Kernel and Spike Character Influence on Test Weight of Soft Red Winter Wheat

Although genotype affects test weight in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), little is known about how physical kernel characteristics affect this quality parameter. The influence of seed and spike characteristics on test weight was investigated in 24 soft red winter wheat (SRWW) cultivars grown in six environments. Seed characters and test weight were measured using gram samples from which shriveled kernels had been removed. Removal of the shriveled kernels increased test weight an average of 36 kg m−3 and reduced the total variation in test weight due to environment and environment by cultivar interaction. Of the seed and spike characters measured, only flour protein content and the average number of seed within a spike were significantly correlated to test weight (r = 0.56 and r = −0.41, respectively) at P = 0.05. Average kernel length and width and the average number of seed per spikelet showed weak negative correlations with test weight (r = −0.38, r = −0.35 and rs = −0.35, respectively) at P = 0.10. Increasing kernel density was weakly associated with increasing test weight (r = 0.39, P = 0.10). Thousand‐kernel weight, diversity of seed size, kernel length to width ratio, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, and spike density were not directly related to test weight. Results of this study indicate that among the characters measured, the amount of shriveling and the protein content of the grain were the most important determinants of test weight in SRWW cultivars.

Identification of Powdery Mildew Resistance Genes in Soft Red Winter Wheat Cultivars and Ohio Breeding Lines

Eight-day-old seedlings of seven soft red winter wheat cultivars and four elite breeding lines were tested for the presence of powdery mildew resistance genes with 14 isolates of Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici. These isolates were characterized for their virulence on differential wheat cultivars and lines with single genes for powdery mildew resistance. Phenotypic reactions of the cultivars and lines to each isolate were assessed 8 days after inoculation. Differential reactions and pedigree information were used to determine the presence of putative powdery mildew resistance genes. The B. g. tritici isolates detected powdery mildew resistance gene Pm3a in AGRA brand GR915, and pedigree information indicated that Freedom contained Pm8

Development of Septoria nodorum Blotch on Winter Wheat Under Two Cultivation Schemes in Maryland

Field experiments were conducted on soft red winter wheat cultivars Florida 302 and Coker 916 at three locations in Maryland over two seasons to assess the effect of cultivation schemes on Septoria nodorum blotch epidemics and the need for disease control. High-input cultivation (HIC) employed half the row spacing and 1.5-2 times the nitrogen fertility of conventional input cultivation. Subplots were inoculated with Stagonospora nodorum at different rates to develop various epidemic levels. Septoria nodorum blotch in the field was more severe on foliage but less severe on heads of Florida 302 than on Coker 916, regardless of the cultivation scheme. HIC tended to reduce disease severity and resulted in higher yields, regardless of cultivar. However, seed infection was either not affected or increased with HIC

Research Note: An Evaluation of Soft and Hard Red Winter Wheat for Nitrogen-Corrected True Metabolizable Energy, Crude Protein, and Amino Acid Content

One study utilizing 8-wk-old Vantress × Arbor Acres male broilers was conducted to determine the TMEn, crude protein, and amino acid content of five soft and five hard composite red winter wheat cultivars from four farms. Soft cultivars evaluated included Caldwell, Pike, Arthur, Hart, and Delange, and the hard cultivars included Payne, Triumph, Tam 101, Chisholm, and Mustang. Energy availability as judged by TMEn, averaged over cultivar within the soft and hard classification, was similar (P > .10) at 3.30 and 3.32 kcal/g, respectively. Considerable variation existed among cultivars within classification, with Payne exhibiting the highest (3.6 kcal/g) and Delange the lowest (2.9 kcal/g) energy content. Average crude protein concentration was higher (P < .05) for the hard red winter wheat (16.0 versus 13.1%). Expressing amino acids as a percentage of crude protein yielded similar values for all amino acids except glutamic acid, methionine, and valine. Based on the data reported, it was confirmed that the hard red winter wheats contain more crude protein and proportionately more amino acids than the soft red winter wheat cultivars. Further, the data indicated that greater variability exists within rather than between the hard and soft red winter wheat categories for TMEn.

Comparison of Hungarian Winter Durum Wheat to Ohio Soft Red Winter Wheat

The opening of a new durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) mill in Ohio and the premium prices paid for durum led to an examination of the feasibility of successfully producing Hungarian winter durum wheat in Ohio and the rest of the soft red winter reheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (SRWW) region. The grain yields and agronomic characteristics of three promising Hungarian winter durum wheat cultivars, 'Basa', 'Minaret', and 'Pannondur', were compared to those of Ohio SRWW cultivars, 'Cardinal' and 'Dynasty', in seven field trials from 1989 to 1991, at Wooster, OH. Mean Hungarian winter durum grain yields were 20%, 48%, and 53% of Ohio SRWW in 1989, 1990, and 1991, respectively. Mean plant densities for the Hungarian durums improved from 49% in 1989, to 71% and 93% in 1990 and 1991, respectively [...]

Nitrogen and Foliar Fungicide Effects on Winter Wheats

In the eastern region of the Great Plains, yield and seed quality of wheat could potentially be increased by applying additional N and foliar fungicide. Field studies were conducted at two locations in southeastern Kansas from 1987 through 1990 on a Parsons silt loam soil (fine, mixed, thermic, Mollic Albaqualf) to evaluate responsiveness of selected cultivars of hard and soft winter wheat to conventional N (75 lb N/acre, fall-applied) and high N (75 lb N/acre, fall-applied followed by 50 lb N/acre topdressed in late winter) fertilizer applications, with and without foliar fungicide (propiconazole — 1[[2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl) -4-propyl-1,3-dioxolan-2-yl]methyl]-1H-l,2,4-triazole). Nitrogen level and foliar fungicide responses varied significantly among cultivars, locations, and years. Grain yield, test weight, kernel weight, and heads per square foot were significantly reduced with the higher N level in 3 of 4 yr at one location; however, at the second location, the high N application significantly increased grain yield compared with the conventional N level. Applying additional topdress N significantly increased grain protein at both sites, but foliar fungicide had no effect on grain protein. Yield response to foliar fungicide was dependent upon leaf rust (Puccinia recondita Rob. ex. Desm. f. sp. tritici] seventy and cultivar disease resistance. Significant N level × fungicide interactions for grain yield occurred in seven of the eight site-years. Results indicate that decisions to use higher N levels and foliar fungicide should be based upon specific environmental conditions and cultivar selection. Research Question Considerable interest has developed in intensive cereal management (ICM) systems for producing higher grain yields. Two important components of these proposed systems are increased N levels and foliar fungicides. Research is lacking on the effectiveness of higher N fertilization and foliar fungicide use in the eastern portion of the Great Plains, where both hard and soft winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars are commonly grown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of two N levels (conventional N = fall-applied and high N = fall-applied followed by late winter topdress), with or without a foliar fungicide on yield, test weight, yield components, grain protein, and flag-leaf N concentration for selected cultivars of hard and soft red winter wheat. Literature Summary The ICM concept originated in Europe, where wheat yields in excess of 100 bu/acre are commonly produced. Intensive cereal management systems have been evaluated throughout the wheat growing regions of the USA to determine their adaptability and economic feasibility. Research conducted in recent years has verified that grain yields of soft red winter wheat can be increased with intensified management systems, including higher N fertilization and foliar fungicide application. Results with combined and selected components of ICM systems have been inconsistent, however, and have varied depending upon specific environmental conditions. Very little research on ICM practices has involved hard red winter wheat cultivars. Study Description The study was conducted at two locations in southeastern Kansas from 1987 through 1990. Soil: Parsons silt loam (fine, mixed, thermic Mollic Albaqualf) Main plots: Conventional N (75 lb/acre - fall, preplant incorporated) Conventional N with foliar fungicide High N (75 lb/acre - fall, preplant incorporated followed by 50 lb/acre — late winter topdress) High N with foliar fungicide Subplots: Selected hard and soft red winter wheat cultivars N source: Urea Foliar fungicide: Tilt, 4 oz/acre (Feeke's GS 8) Applied Question Did higher N levels and foliar fungicide application increase wheat yield and grain quality? Yield response to N level and foliar fungicide varied significantly at two locations (Table 1). Results indicate that yield response to higher N levels and foliar fungicide is highly dependent upon specific environmental conditions, foliar disease severity, and cultivar disease resistance. Grain protein levels were increased with additional topdress N application, whereas foliar fungicide had no effect on protein. Table 1. Effects of N level and foliar fungicide on grain yield and protein in Labette and Cherokee Counties, Kansas.† Yield Protein Labette Cherokee Labette Cherokee Treatment County County County County ------bu/acre----- -------%------- Conventional N 56.2 53.6 12.5 9.8 Conventional N with 60.9 54.7 12.4 9.7 fungicide High N 51.9 58.7 13.7 11.1 High N with fungicide 60.5 62.4 13.7 11.1 LSD (0.05) 2.7 3.1 0.3 0.3 † Data averaged over cultivars and years.

Sensitivity of soft red winter wheat cultivars to chlorate‐induced toxicity

Abstract The use of chlorate as a nitrate analogue to screen soft red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars for differences in nitrate reductase activity (NRA) was studied by adding potassium chlorate to a hydroponic nutrient solution in which wheat seedlings were growing. After 14 days, leaf symptoms indicating chlorate‐induced toxicity were rated. It was hypothesized that wheat plants which were susceptible to chlorate‐induced toxicity reduced chlorate and nitrate more rapidly than did resistant plants. In experiments testing the potential of this assay, wheat and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars previously reported to have low NRA were less susceptible to chlorate‐induced toxicity than were cultivars reported to have high NRA. The assay was used to screen 15 soft red winter wheat cultivars for differences in sensitivity to chlorate‐induced toxicity. Variable toxic reactions were observed both among and within the cultivars. To determine whether the within‐cultivar variation was environmental or genetic, single plant selections for contrasting chlorate response were made, and bulked progeny were rescreened. In eight of 15 cultivars, the contrasting selections were different for chlorate‐induced toxic response, indicating heterogeneity for this trait within these eight cultivars. These chlorate‐selected lines may also be near‐isogenic lines for NRA. Seedling screening of wheat for chlorate response may be useful for identification of high NRA breeding lines.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Cultivar Tolerance and Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) Control with Diclofop, BAY SMY 1500, and Metribuzin

In the field, 14 soft red winter wheat cultivars responded differently to 1.1 kg ai ha–1diclofop, 1.7 kg ai ha–1BAY SMY 1500, and 0.42 kg ai ha–1metribuzin applied POST. Diclofop and metribuzin did not injure any cultivar more than 10% on a silty clay soil. However, BAY SMY 1500 injured ‘Pioneer 2551’ and ‘Coker 983’ 39 and 21%, respectively, in March. All other cultivars were injured less than 10% by BAY SMY 1500. Early injury did not translate into yield loss in the cultivar tolerance study. In an application timing study for Italian ryegrass control, late-season ratings indicated better control with two-leaf applications than with PRE applications for all treatments. Delaying application to the three-tiller stage reduced control with BAY SMY 1500 or metribuzin, but not with diclofop. On the sandier soil at this location, wheat injury with 0.28 or 0.43 kg ha–1metribuzin or 2.2 kg ha–1BAY SMY 1500 was sufficient to reduce wheat yield compared with other treatments, despite good Italian ryegrass control.

Influence of Tillage on Plant Populations, Disease Incidence, and Grain Yield of Two Soft Red Winter Wheat Cultivars

No-till soft red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production reduces soil erosion and increases the opportunity for timely planting. The purpose of this study was to determine if the elimination of tillage in winter wheat production influences plant populations, disease incidence, and grain yield response to N fertilization. A 3-yr study was conducted on a Loradale silt loam (fine, mixed, mesic Typic Argiudolls) using two cultivars. No-tillage (NT) was compared to more conventional (CT) systems involving either a moldboard or chisel plow. Fertilizer application rates were 0, 70, and 140 lb N/acre. Plant stands for the cultivar ‘Caldwell’, measured 3 wk after planting, were 14.7% lower in NT than in CT in 1982–1983. Plant stands for both cultivars were 12% lower in the NT system in 1983–1984. The incidence of powdery mildew (Erysiphe graminis) was higher under NT in 1982–1983, while septoria glume blotch (Septoria nodorum) infection was not affected by tillage. Powdery mildew infection was greatest for the cultivar ‘Wheeler’ while septoria glume blotch infection was greatest for Caldwell. Lodging was greater in the NT system in 1982–1983. Lodging was higher for Wheeler in NT than in the CT system in 1982–1983. Flag leaf and grain N concentrations were not influenced by tillage system in any season. Grain yields responded positively to N application 2 of the 3 yr, but were not affected by tillage system in any year. A tillage × N rate interaction for grain yield was not observed. Efficiency of fertilizer N removal by grain (corrected for controls) averaged 43% at 70 lb N/acre and 29% at 140 lb N/acre.

Genetic Variation for Nitrogen Use in Soft Red ✕ Hard Red Winter Wheat Populations

Hard red winter (HRW) wheat (Triticum aestivum L. era. Thell.) cultivars are genetically distinct from soft red winter (SRW) wheat cultivars and thus provide new sources of germplasm for SRW wheat breeding programs. Previous research has shown that HRW ✕ SRW wheat crosses can generate segregates with acceptably low grain protein concentration (GPC). This study was conducted evaluate genetic variation of traits related to N uptake, partitioning, and utilization in HRW ✕ SRW wheat populations. The F3 and F4 generations of three HRW ✕ SRW crosses were grown in 1985 and 1986, respectively, on a Maury silt loam soil (fine, mixed, mesic Typic Paleudalf) near Lexington, KY. Significant differences among F4 families were observed for N harvest index (NHI), GPC and use efficiency for yield (NUEY) and protein (NUEP) in all populations. The correlation between N partitioning (NHI) and GPC varied among crosses, ranging from r = −0.57 (P &lt; 0.01) to near zero. Highly significant differences for NUEY and NUEP were observed among F4 families of each cross. A path analysis indicated that the direct effect of N uptake efficiency accounted for as much as 91% of the variation in NUEY and 88% in NUEP. Indirect effects were of little consequence. The data demonstrate that N‐use traits are strongly influenced by the environment, and would be difficult to modify in a breeding program.

Effect of Temperature and Growth Stage of Wheat on Development of Leaf and Glume Blotch Caused bySeptoria triticiandS. nodorum

Severity of leaf blotch caused by Septoria tritici and leaf and glume blotch caused by S. nodorum was assessed on two soft red winter wheat cultivars (AGRA GR8SS and Caldwell) at three temperatures (19, 24, and 29 C) and four growth stages (GS 6 or first node visible, GS 10 or boot, GS 10.5 or preflowering, and GS 11 or postflowering). The percentage of leaf and glume area with symptoms, density of pycnidia in lesions, and number of conidia per pycnidium were determined

Incidence of Soilborne Wheat Mosaic Virus and Its Reported Vector,Polymyxa graminis,in Field-Grown Soft Red Winter Wheat

The incidence of soilborne wheat mosaic virus (SBWMV) and Polymyxa graminis in four resistant (Hart, Purdue, IL 87-7394, and IL 85-2655) and four susceptible (Cardinal, Rosette, Michigan Amber, and Maryland 75-266-46) soft red winter wheat cultivars was investigated in field experiments during 1989-1990. Soilborne wheat mosaic virus antigen in roots and shoots was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). P. graminis root infections were assessed with bright field microscopy. Both resistant and susceptible cultivars became infected with the virus shortly after planting in the fall

Yield and Agronomic Characteristics of Soft Red Winter Wheat as Influenced by Management

Field research was conducted over two years in three states to determine the effect of management systems on the yield and agronomic characteristics of soft red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars adapted to the Great Lakes region of the USA, and to evaluate environmental influences on response of cultivars to different management inputs in a total of six «environments». Nine cultivars were subjected to six management treatments (MT), differing in seeding, N, fungicide, and plant growth regulator rates (...)

Vernalization of Wheat Cultivars and a Triticale

Adaptation of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars to southeastern U.S. environments could be improved if their vernalization responses were better defined. Vernalization responses of several cultivars of wheat and a triticale were assessed in 1985 and 1986 in Gainesville, FL (29 ° 38′N lat.) using varying durations of natural winter (NW) cold exposure of potted plants and refrigerator (RF) exposure of germinating seeds. Five soft red winter wheat cultivars, Florida 301, Florida 302, Hunter, Coker 983, and Caldwell; a soft white spring wheat cultivar, Owens; a hard white wheat cultivar, Phoenix; and triticale (✕ Triticosecale Whittmack) cultivar Beagle 82 were investigated. Following cold exposures, all potted plants or vernalized, potted seeds were placed in a warm greenhouse at 18‐h day length. Three types of vernalization responses were observed: (i) cold obligate (qualitative) requiring 6 to 8 wk of cold for heading and including Caldwell and Coker 983, winter‐hardy types; (ii) cold stimulated (quantitative) heading earlier than the control with 2 to 4 wk of cold exposure and included Florida 302, Hunter, and Phoenix, mild‐winter types; and (iii) cold neutral, not stimulated by cold exposure and included Owens, Beagle 82, and Florida 301, spring types. Heading of the cold‐neutral cultivars was in the order Owens, Beagle 82, and Florida 301 and was delayed by increasing exposure to cold. Both NW and RF treatments were effective vernalization methods. While RF (constant 6 °C) required about four times the cold units, the duration of cold exposure required was similar for both methods. We conclude that fall‐sown cultivars grown in the lower USA vary in vernalization response (ranging from cold obligate to cold neutral). Knowledge of this variation enhances opportunity for selection of cultivars to fit the narrow window of wheat adaptation in the southern USA.

Identification of Powdery Mildew Resistance Genes in Cultivars of Soft Red Winter Wheat

Twenty-two soft red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars were inoculated with isolates of Erysiphe graminis f. sp. tritici to determine genes for resistance. Cultivars were tested with a total of 27 isolates that had been characterized from reactions on differential host lines. Genes determinations were completed separately in two laboratories with different isolates and the results were combined. Intact 10-day-old seedlings or detached primary leaves on benzimidazole-amended agar were inoculated, and evaluations based on pustule number and type were made 10-14 days later (...)

Soft Red Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Response to Dicamba and Dicamba Plus 2,4-D

Soft red winter wheat cultivars were evaluated in field experiments in Georgia for tolerance to dicamba alone and mixed with 2,4-D. Treatments reduced ‘Florida 302’ yield more than ‘Florida 301’ or ‘Coker 983’ at Tifton in 1986. Mid-tillering Florida 302 wheat was more sensitive to treatment than fully tillered wheat. In 1987, dicamba plus 2,4-D applied at mid-tillering reduced yields of all cultivars in Watkinsville. Injury and yield reductions occurred primarily when mid-tiller treatments were applied to wheat that was planted 10 or 21 days later than recommended at Tifton or Watkinsville, respectively. When applied according to labeling, dicamba or dicamba plus 2,4-D use in Georgia soft red winter wheat can reduce grain yield.

Effects of Powdery Mildew, Triadimenol Seed Treatment, and Triadimefon Foliar Sprays on Yield of Winter Wheat in North Carolina

Leath, S., and Bowen, K. L. 1989. Effects of powdery mildew, triadimenol seed treatment, and triadimefon foliar sprays on yield of winter wheat in North Carolina. Phytopathology 79:152-155. Wheat plots were established in central and eastern North Carolina in the yields. Area under the powdery mildew curve was negatively correlated falls of 1985 and 1986 to determine yield reduction caused by Erysiphe with yield; the correlation coefficient averaged -0.55 across four graminis f. sp. tritici on winter wheat cultivars Saluda and Coker 983. environments. No clear associations between disease and various yield Check plots were compared with plots kept nearly disease-free with three to components were detected. Regression models were constructed, and yield four foliar applications of triadimefon. The efficacy of triadimenol for reductions of approximately 17% were observed in Saluda when disease mildew control when applied as a seed treatment, with or without different severity reached 10% on the flag leaf by heading. Powdery mildew can limit triadimefon foliar spray schedules, also was determined. Significant disease yield in modern soft red winter wheat cultivars, although current levels of control resulted from foliar applications of triadimefon on both cultivars; resistance in certain cultivars are sufficient to prevent large yield however, the only consistent yield reductions were observed with Saluda. reductions. Triadimenol seed treatments lowered mildew severity and increased grain

Nitrogen Fertilization and Plant Growth Regulator Effects on Yield and Quality of Four Wheat Cultivars

High rates of N fertilizer and the use of plant growth regulators (PGRs) to control lodging have combined to improve wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yields in some studies and are often considered a part of intensive management systems. Our objective was to determine the effect of N rate and PGRs—chlormequat chloride (CCC) and ethephon—on soft red winter wheat yields, yield components, lodging, and baking and milling quality for flour characteristics under Indiana conditions. A split-split plot design was used with four soft red winter wheat cultivars—‘Arthur 71’, ‘Auburn’, ‘Caldwell’, and ‘Compton’—as whole plots; N rates 40, 80, 120, and 160 lb N/acre as subplots; and PGRs—CCC and ethephon—as sub-subplots. The studies were conducted on Parr silt loam (fine-loamy, mixed, mesic Typic Argiudolls). Cultivars varied in yield and yield components between the two years. Lodging was most severe with Arthur 71 and was minimal with Auburn both years. Nitrogen rates above 80 lb/acre were not beneficial in 1984. No yield response to N rates greater than 40 lb/acre occurred in 1985. N rates greater than 80 lb/acre increased lodging, decreased kernel size, and apparently reduced baking quality. Chlormequat chloride increased yields but only reduced lodging one year. Ethephon reduced lodging both years, but its detrimental effect on yield, kernel size, and baking quality detracted from its beneficial effect on lodging. Wheat yields were not increased when N rates were increased above recommended rates and PGRs were applied to control lodging.

Components of partial resistance to Leptosphaeria nodorum among seven soft red winter wheats

Seven soft red winter wheat cultivars were evaluated for partial resistance to Leptosphaeria nodorum under field conditions. The results demonstrate that resistance is available among cultivars that are adapted to the southeastern U.S. and that resistance is long lasting. Resistant cultivars had longer incubation and latent periods, slower rates of lesion development, and reduced the level of sporulation of L. nodorum. Seedlings of susceptible cultivars sustained severe disease with dew periods as short as 48 hr in greenhouse tests. One resistant cultivar sustained little damage with dew period as long as 144 hr.

Nitrogen Allocation with Altered Sink Demand in Wheat

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain N is derived concurrently from mobilization of vegetative N accumulated prior to anthesis and soil N absorbed after anthesis. The effect of main stem spike removal on N redistribution, total tiller grain yield, and total grain N yield was determined to assess the relationship between N utilization and reproductive sink demand. The soft red winter wheat cultivar ‘Hart’ was field grown on a Maury silt loam soil (fine, mixed, mesic, Typic Paleudalf). Net changes in tissue N contents and allocation of 50 μmol of 99 atom % 15N‐NH+4 injected into the main stem penultimate internode were determineduring grain fill. Senescence of main stem vegetative tissues, as indicated by net loss of vegetative N, was equivalent for plants with main stem spikes intact (control) and plants with only main stem spikes removed (‐spike). However, after anthesis negligible main stem injected 15N was allocated to control tillers, whereas the tillers of the ‐spike treatment contained 69% of the aboveground excess 15N at maturity. Even though the main stem vegetative N of the ‐spike treatment was allocated to the tillers, grain yield was not significantly increased compared to the control. There was a trend for increased tiller N yield such that total N yield of the ‐spike treatment was 12% less than the control, whereas plant total grain yield of the ‐spike treatment was 21% less than the control. These results indicate that senescence proceeds normally in stems lacking a reproductive sink, provided that alternate tiller sinks are present. Furthermore, effects of reduced sink demand appear to have a greater impact on plant grain yield than on plant N yield.