Vernalization effects for seeds of late summer sowing cultivation in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

While efforts are made to increase yield, this was always met with limiting factors one of which is the seasonality of crops. This study aims to break the barrier imposed by environmental conditions to growing wheat crops. This study was conducted to identify wheat varieties suitable for cultivation in late summer in Kochi and develop new technology suitable for done by using 2 types of water, the untreated water and treated water (Bakuhan-seki and sedimentary rock). Bakuhan-seki stone is a mineral mainly consisting of alkali feldspar and quartz. This stone has been distinct for its enormous porosity, high absorption capacity and has the ability of emitting natural minerals contained in the stone itself. Electrical conductivity (EC), pH, oxidation reduction potential (ORP) of water were determined every five minutes for 40 minutes. Wheat varieties AK, KA, K25 and N61 were soaked in treated water and placed in an incubator set at 25°C for at least five hours. Thereafter, the seeds were spread in a Petri dish overlaid with filter paper and were again placed in the incubator set at 4-5°C for three weeks. In the phytotron experiment, test was done for the same wheat varieties. Bakuhanseki proved to be ideal in this requirement. When used as a planting material, treated seeds of N61, K25 and KA varieties had earlier panicle emergence resulting to a higher percentage of filled grains and heavier grain weight over untreated control. Results indicate that these varieties are potential options to be grown in summer to help attain food self-sufficiency.