Rising Temperature Damaging Wheat and Barley Crops: Here's What Farmers Should Do

Key Highlights:

• Wheat and barley crops affected by 40°C temperature

• Grain quality and yield may reduce drastically

• Light irrigation helps maintain soil moisture

• Use foliar sprays like potassium nitrate and silicic acid

• Consult agriculture experts before using any chemicals

The rising temperature in many parts of India is becoming a big concern for farmers. Along with causing trouble to people, it is now starting to damage standing crops like wheat and barley. In several areas, wheat harvesting has started, while in other places, crops are still in the fields.Farmers who sowed wheat late are now preparing for harvesting. In such situations, the high temperature can badly affect the remaining wheat and barley crops.

Agricultural experts have warned that if proper steps are not taken in time, farmers may face huge losses. Let’s understand what kind of damage high temperatures can cause to wheat crops and what farmers can do to save their crops.

Also Read: Relief for Farmers: Interest-Free Crop Loan Repayment Deadline Extended

How Rising Temperatures Affect Wheat Crops

According to experts, wheat crops are very sensitive to heat, especially during the pollination and grain formation stages.

• The ideal temperature for wheat pollination is below 30°C.

• If the temperature crosses 35°C, the risk of crop damage increases.

• In many states, the temperature has already reached 40°C, which is harmful for wheat.

This high heat can lead to:

• Poor grain quality, which fetches lower prices in the market.

• Decreased production and reduced overall yield.

Damages Caused by High Temperatures

Farmers need to be aware of the possible harm caused by heat:

• Grains may not form properly.

• Reduction in the number of wheat ears.

• Shrinking and under-filled wheat grains.

• Poor quality due to heat during grain formation.

• Lower grain weight and lighter grains.

• Reduced total production, affecting earnings.

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Why Wheat and Barley Are at Risk

Heat affects key growth stages in wheat and barley crops:

• Pollen and stamens become inactive due to heat.

• This disrupts pollination and embryo development.

• As a result, fewer grains are formed, and their size and weight are reduced.

Steps Farmers Should Take to Protect Crops

Experts have suggested several simple but effective steps:

• Irrigate lightly to keep the soil moist and cool down the field.

• In late-sown crops, spray potassium nitrate (13:0:45) along with chelated zinc and chelated manganese.

• Use foliar spray of 15 grams of silicic acid in 100 liters of water during the grain formation stage.

• First spray: At the ear emergence stage.

• Second spray: At the milky stage.

• Spray 0.2% muriate of potash or potassium nitrate twice, 15 days apart.

• When earheads appear, spray 10 grams of ascorbic acid in 100 liters of water to reduce heat impact.

• To control blight disease (which can spread due to heat), spray 1 ml of propiconazole in 1 liter of water twice at a gap of 10–12 days.

Final Advice for Farmers

• Irrigate on time and follow recommended agricultural practices to avoid damage.

• Always consult local agricultural officers or experts before using any sprays or chemical medicines.

Also Read: Government Offers ₹14 Lakh Subsidy for Fish and Shrimp Farming in Haryana

CMV360 Says

Rising heat is a serious threat to wheat and barley crops in India. Farmers need to stay alert and take timely action. By following the advice of agricultural experts and using proper farming methods, they can reduce the damage and protect their crops from losses.

Stay updated, stay protected.