Growth stages of wheat and development, life cycle. It is how the wheat grows from the seed/grain up to flowering stages. Wheat is one of the most popular food for breakfast. It is widely cultivated in many countries.
When you see the wheat growth and development from seed/grain up to its mature stage, you will be informed well on how it is growing, giving you extra knowledge.
Growth Stages Of Wheat
Stage 1: Wheat Seed/Grain
The first growth stages of wheat are in the form of a seed/grain. In this stage, still, nothing happens, no sign of germination or any activity about the wheat plant. The wheat seed characteristics are very small and look oblong with pointed tips in shape. It is color brown with a smooth texture. It has a fragrant smell.
The wheat seed/grain will be considered the beginning stage because it is where the plant grows and develops. Also, most of the plants have seeds, where they start their journey. You can buy seeds/grains from the store.
Stage 2: Germination
Germination is the second stage. The seed grows a tiny root. Usually, the wheat seeds germinate around 3 to 7 days, whether winter, spring, or durum. This plant grows well in places with 13°C to 25°C. In this stage, the journey of the plant was started.
The wheat growers need to pick or buy quality seeds to have a high percentage of germination. But it will not also depend on what kind of seeds you have—overall, this stage is about root development.
Stage 3: Wheat Seedlings
In this stage, the wheat seeds develop into a seedling. A seedling grows roots and appears few leaves, and it also has a smooth stem. It is about two to three weeks old. This stage is both about root and leaf development.
Stage 4: Tillering
In this growth stage, it is developed into tillering. A young plant grows more leaves, roots, and stems. A young wheat plant grows tall with about a few inches in height.
When the wheat develops into a young plant, it needs some water. The water will help to grow it bigger. Also, wheat loves sunlight to produce its food through photosynthesis. It needs at least 6 hours of a direct hit of the sun.
It would help if you also started applying fertilizer. The fertilizer will help to grow it well. Usually, fertilizer with good nitrogen is best. It is great to know the growth stages of wheat.
Stage 5: Stem Extension
The plant continues to grow well. The plant develops more leaves during this stage, prolongs its stem, and produces stronger roots. Those parts are hardening and can be able to start blooming as soon as possible. The plant is prepared and ready.
The leaves are thicker, and the stem grows to linger are bigger. The roots are becoming more and longer. You need to apply the requirements of the plants for them to grow much better.
Stage 6 : Heading
The wheat plant’s head has fully emerged in this stage. The leaves, stems, and roots develop well. The height of the plant elongates a few inches. It will start flowering sooner.
Stage 7: Flowering
The next stage is flowering. The beautiful green flowers started to appear. During this time, the plant is already three months old, if it is spring or durum, about seven months of winter wheat.
Wheat is a kind of self-pollinated plant. It pollinates for around 3 to 5 days. High temperature and drought stress reduce the number of kernels. It will produce good kernels if the soil is moist.
It is one of the best stages since it is a flower, and it is delightful to see your plants start to bloom. It is a stress reliever and will make you happy even more. Growing bunches of wheat is very relaxing. This stage is about flower development.
Stage 8: Ripening
In this stage, the grains are developed and started to ripe. It needs around three to four months to be mature. It is very relaxing and enjoyable to see your plants producing grains.
When the wheat is ripe, it is going to harvest. Growing wheat takes around 3 to 4 months to harvest from seeds for spring and durum. At the same time, it takes 7 to 8 months for winter wheat.
Stage 9: Drying Phase
In this stage, the plants turn brown and begin to dry. The plant will fall and then dry. Since the wheat is harvested, the plant will stop growing.