Zum Einfluß von Saatzeiten, Saatstärken und Sorten auf agronomische Merkmale von Winterweizen in einem System mit geringer Betriebsmittelzufuhr von außen

The influence of sowing date, seed rate, and variety on agricultural characteristics of winter wheat in a low external input system
Growth conditions of winter wheat in agricultural low external input systems, e.g. ecological agriculture, are very different compared to conventional agriculture (mineral nutrition, impact of diseases, competition of weeds). In 1986, 1987, and 1988 the influence of sowing date and seed rate on crop development and grain production was studied with two varieties of winter wheat in field experiments in Northern Hessia.
Drilling after the first decade of October decreases grain yield of both varieties significantly. The decrease was due to poor emergence, low plant densities, and low grain weights. Tillering could not compensate low plant densities, presumably because of low mineralization of nutrients in cold soils during respective growth stages.
Variation of seed rate (350, 500, and 650 viable seeds/m²) had little influence on grain yield. Low plant densities and low numbers of ears per nr after sowing in the end of October could not be improved satisfactorily by increased seed rates.
The ability of varieties of winter wheat to compensate unfavourable growth conditions due to "late" sowing varies considerably. Cultivars which are able to develop a high plant density seem to be more suitable for delayed sowing dates, as compared to varieties which own a high grain weight.
Further investigations concerning wheat production are needed to optimize agricultural low external input systems. Especially sandy soils with quick response to increased ambient temperature, and sites with favourable growth conditions in late autumn and early spring should be considered.