Planting depth critical for short-statured wheat varieties

The Proper Planting Depth of wheat seed is particularly important for good seedling emergence and stand establishment when short-statured varieties are grown. Research in progress at U.C., Davis indicates that the recommended planting depth of 1½ to 2 inches should be followed closely when currently popular varieties such as Pitic 62, Lerma Rojo 64, Sonora 64, and other short-statured wheats are used. The length of the coleoptile (the protective sheath which surrounds the first foliage leaves prior to emergence) is the reason, since it often is only 50 to 75 per cent as long as that found in Ramona 50 and other taller varieties. Certain wheat strains— if planted deeper than 2 inches—may never develop a coleoptile long enough for emergence.