Small grain variety testing trial 2024-25
Applied Research
Avik Mukherjee
Assistant Extension Agent, Agronomy
University of Arizona
Casa Grande
Abstract
Selecting the appropriate variety is essential for a farmer’s success, as small grain varieties in Arizona differ in adaptation and performance, directly affecting profitability. Variety trial testing assesses commercially available and emerging cultivars to help farmers make informed choices. Since individual producers often lack the resources to test multiple varieties, University of Arizona agronomists conduct annual trials to bridge this gap. In Pinal County, Arizona, 32% of stakeholders have expressed interest in receiving updated information on small grain variety testing. However, a significant knowledge gap has persisted in this area, and our project aims to address it. These trials provide farmers, seed producers, extension agents, and consultants with objective, up-to-date insights to support informed decision-making based on local growing conditions. Given the annual variations in performance and the introduction of new varieties, evaluating commercial small grains each year is essential. To address this, a small-grain variety testing trial is underway at the Maricopa Agricultural Center, featuring 13 varieties of durum wheat, three varieties of barley, and three varieties of triticale. This project seeks to reinstate annual testing while integrating in-season physiological characterization alongside agronomic performance. These findings will improve the understanding of adaptation to Arizona’s climate stresses, aiding in developing more resilient small-grain varieties.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: Avik Mukherjee, Bhupinder Singh
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Mukherjee, A. Assistant Extension Agent, Agronomy, University of Arizona, Arizona, 85122
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Singh, B. Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, University of Arizona, Arizona, 85138