
High temperatures are harming wheat and barley crops; farmers should take protective steps like irrigation and sprays to reduce damage.
By Robin Kumar Attri
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.
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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.
Poor grain quality, which fetches lower prices in the market.
Decreased production and reduced overall yield.
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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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.
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.
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.
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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.
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