"Irrigate Wheat Field Lightly," Advises IIWBR to Wheat Farmers

Wheat growers are concerned about the rising temperature at this point because they believe it will have a negative impact on crop yield. Minimum temperatures in Punjab have been several degrees above normal for the past few days, prompting the advisory. 

The IIWBR advised farmers in its advisory to provide light irrigation to the wheat crop as needed. According to the advisory, irrigation should be stopped during strong windy weather to avoid lodging, which could result in yield loss.

Farmers who have sprinkler irrigation can irrigate their fields for 30 minutes in the afternoon if the temperature rises, according to the report. Farmers with drip irrigation should ensure proper crop moisture to avoid stress, according to the advisory.

It also stated that two sprays of potassium chloride 0.2 percent at the jointing and heading stages may reduce losses caused by terminal heat in the event of a sudden rise in temperature. Farmers were also advised to monitor their wheat crop for yellow rust disease on a regular basis.

In the event of yellow rust disease, it is advised to consult an agricultural expert at the nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra, research institute, or state agriculture department staff.

Wheat is extremely susceptible to heat stress. It is estimated that every one degree Celsius increase in temperature reduces global wheat production by 6%. Even a 1°C temperature increase above the mean temperature during the reproductive stage may result in a greater loss of grain yield.