The best wheat varieties for your preferred drilling window

Delayed or late drilling, considered to be from mid-October onwards, has become an increasingly popular management tool for a range of pests, weeds and diseases. However, for those wanting to take advantage of mild and drier conditions and maximise a yield potential, early drilling (1st September onwards) will be a feasible option.

Due to a shift in growing patterns in recent years, early drilling is now considered to be in the first week of September compared with mid-August which was practiced by many a decade ago. Growers from Yorkshire upwards often look to drill as early as possible to ensure crops have enough time to emerge before the winter.

Where the rule is often the earlier in the north, delayed drilling is advised for growers in the AHDB East/West. Although wheat growers can be eager to drill early, there are benefits for pushing drilling back to later in the autumn.

Delaying drilling gives the chance to reduce grass weed pressure. In addition, the practice also helps control Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV). It takes longer for the second generation of aphids to emerge when the weather is cooler. Later drilled varieites often require lower inputs, and there is good yield potential on heavier land.

However, if growers have not managed to drill prior to Christmas, it may be more economically viable to switch to spring wheat varieties.

Whether you choose to drill early or late, it is important to consider the key agronomic characteristics required for a variety to be suitable for either slot. Understanding the best wheat varieties for your preferred drilling window will help you to maximise your potential.