Making Sense of Small Grains

When plants are subjected to a long period of cold temperatures, they vernalize. Vernalization functions as a springboard into the plants flowering process, initiated by the cold. Vernalization requirements vary between grain varieties, but typically the process involves several weeks of sub 45 degree Fahrenheit temperatures. Once a plant’s vernalization requirement is met, they lay dormant until warmer conditions arrive. Springtime temperatures begin to rise and day length slowly increases, the plants will break their dormancy and continue to the next stages of growth. (Feekes Stage 5+) Vernalization is a crucial evolutionary adaptation to ensure that the plant does not initiate its reproductive stages before the winter season ends. The vernalization requirement ensures that the plant will remain dormant throughout (most of) the winter and will not initiate growth until the weather is suitable to continue plant growth.

The first of three grain types is perhaps what is most commonly thought of, spring planting. Spring-type small grains are those that may be planted in the spring and harvested in the succeeding summer. Spring-type small grains typically have lower cold-tolerance than winter or facultative-type small grain varieties. Common spring-type small grains in the west include (INSERT PRODUCTS) spring oats, which are planted for grain or for forage. Spring-type small grains do not have the same vernalization requirements as winter-type, which allows them to proceed through their growth stages without a prolonged period of cold weather.

Fall or winter-type small grains are those that may be planted in the fall and harvested in the succeeding summer. Winter-type small grains have much higher winter hardiness than spring-type small grains and have adapted to cold winter months by entering a period of dormancy. Winter dormancy initiation is driven by several factors, notably colder temperatures and shorter day length periods (longer nights). Winter-type small grains must enter a period called vernalization to proceed through Feekes stages 5-11.

Finally, facultative-type small grains are those that may be planted in the fall or spring and harvested in the following summer. This category consists largely of, but not exclusively of triticale. Their vernalization requirements are very low to non-existent, which is why they can progress through their growth stages regardless of planting date. These facultative type cereals may be advantageous to producers who plant small grains for forage but may have to save some seed until the spring to finish planting.

Whatever your planting needs, Great Basin Seed is committed to helping you find the best product for your needs. For more information call (435) 283-1411.