Recommendations for Growing Standard-Height Wheat Varieties in Arizona

Until the introduction of semi-dwarf wheat in the late 1960s, wheat varieties were typically one and a half to two times their current height. Most heirloom, traditional, or landrace varieties are considered standard-height wheat (e.g. Sonoran white); in general they are adapted to lower-input conditions, and cannot tolerate high-fertility environments without lodging. Lodging reduces grain yield, delays harvest, and increases harvesting costs. Standard-height wheat needs to be grown at a lower plant density and with less nitrogen and irrigation water than semi-dwarfs in order to prevent lodging, optimize yield, and make the most efficient use of resources.