1999 Evaluation of Spring Einkorn
Project Personnel
G.F. Stallknecht, Moccasin, MT
P. Hucl, Ag. Canada, Univ. Saskatchewan, Sask. Canada
V. Vallega, Inst. Cereal Studies Rome, Italy
R.L. Murphy, Agricultural Research Specialist, Moccasin, MT
J. Vavrovsky, Agricultural Research Specialist, Moccasin, MT
Objectives
To evaluate einkorn germplasm selections for yield and
resistance to lodging when grown under dryland cropping in Montana.
Results and Discussion
Twenty-eight einkorn germplasm selections received from Dr. Vallega were grown under dryland fallow at CARC. The 1999 einkorn yields were significantly lower than yields from trials grown in previous years. Einkorn wheat generally matures 10-14 days later than spring wheat, and the resulting lower 1999 yields may be due to the rainfall patterns during the growing season. The plant height of the einkorn selections were shorter than normal and appeared to be suffering from drought stress. The current year's results are presented in Table 90.
The einkorn trial in 1999 was essentially a bust. The trial looked drought stressed and was contaminated with seed mixtures due to seed sticking to the press wheels.
The Italian einkorn selections will be planted from nuclear seed stock again in spring 2000. The einkorn from Italy represents advanced lines selected from Dr. Vallega’s breeding program, which have been selected for superior yield, agronomic traits and baking quality flour. Successful identification of a einkorn variety which is adapted to Montana, will offer producers a alternative grain for niche market opportunities.
