Protein prediction in winter wheat

摘要

Three wheat trials tested a range of nitrogen doses over 2 years, to investigate the use of a chlorophyll meter to predict grain protein. Measurements of SPAD values, percent flag leaf nitrogen, yield and protein were taken at all three sites. In addition soil nitrogen was measured to give an estimate of soil nitrogen supply. In the two seasons of 2008 and 2009 the results indicate a threshold SPAD meter value for Solstice of 56 to achieve 13% protein. Some of the different responses between locations and seasons are reported and the potential benefits and practical limitations to farmers are discussed.