Yield and Grain Quality Response of Spring Wheat Varieties to Irrigation and Fertility Management

Abstract

Experiments were conducted in 2020 and 2021 in North Dakota to determine the effects of foliar and soil applied fertilizers, variety and irrigation on yield and grain quality of spring wheat. Foliar application of N did not consistently increase yield and protein indicating the soil N levels were adequate to optimize yield. The variety Bolles had higher protein content than Faller. Zinc (Zn) content in the grain was greatest when applied at either flowering or post anthesis. It was also found to be correlated with grain protein content. Yield and grain protein content were negatively related. There was no consistent effect of phosphorous or Zn when applied to the soil on yield, protein, gluten, or Zn content in the grain. Zinc concentration in the grain was significantly correlated with the protein, gluten and P content of the grain. The timing of Zn application was critical to the success of translocating Zn to the grain. Grain Zn concentration increased with most late season foliar Zn applications to both varieties indicating potential for enriching spring wheat nutrient content through production management practices already common in areas that grow spring wheat.