Wheat
Triticum aestivum
Overview
Wheat is one of the most important main Rabi cereal crops in Pakistan, serving as a staple food for millions.
Cultivation Information
Climate Requirements
Cool and dry climate with temperature between 12-25°C during growth period.
Soil Requirements
Well-drained loamy soil with pH 6.5-7.5. Clay loam to sandy loam is ideal.
Planting Season
November to December (Rabi season)
Planting Method
Drill method or broadcasting. Drill method is recommended for better yield.
Seed Rate
40-50 kg/acre
Spacing
20-25 cm row spacing
Irrigation Requirements
4-6 irrigations during entire crop period. Critical stages: crown root, tillering, flowering, and grain filling.
Fertilizer Requirements
NPK: 120:90:60 kg/hectare. Apply urea in 2-3 splits.
Harvesting Time
120-140 days
Expected Yield
480-1200 kg/acre
Disease Management
Common Diseases
Rust (Yellow, Brown, Black), Smut, Karnal Bunt, Septoria leaf blotch
Symptoms
Yellow/brown pustules on leaves and stems, blackened kernels, leaf spots
Prevention
Use certified disease-free seeds, crop rotation, timely sowing
Treatment
Fungicide application: Tilt, Propiconazole at first appearance of disease
Pest Management
Common Pests
Aphids, Army worm, Termites, Wheat stem sawfly
Pest Control
Integrated Pest Management (IPM), field monitoring, natural predators
Recommended Treatments
Recommended Pesticides
Imidacloprid for aphids, Chlorpyrifos for termites
Recommended Fungicides
Tilt, Propiconazole, Tebuconazole
Organic Solutions
Neem oil spray, crop rotation with legumes, use of resistant varieties
Additional Information
Best Practices
Timely sowing, proper seed rate, balanced fertilization, timely irrigation, weed control
Market Information
Government procurement at MSP (Minimum Support Price). Best time to sell: April-May
Storage Tips
Store in dry, cool place. Moisture content should be below 12%. Use proper storage bins to prevent pest damage.
