Triticum aestivum
Triticum aestivum
common wheat
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Common Names
common wheatbread wheat
Context
nativeRegion
Fertile Crescent (Near East)
usdaZones
Grown as an annual worldwide; optimal in USDA Zones 5–10.
companionPlants
Clover, Vetch, Legumes
culturalUses
Primary global cereal crop; used for bread, pasta, and other food products. Significant in agriculture, culture, and economy worldwide.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun is essential for optimal growth.
WateringRequires moderate, consistent moisture, particularly during germination and early growth. Avoid waterlogged soils.
SoilPrefers fertile, well-drained loamy soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.0–7.5).
FertilizerBenefits from balanced fertilization, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium during key growth stages.
HumidityTolerates a range but prefers moderate humidity; prolonged high humidity can promote fungal diseases.
TemperatureBest growth occurs in cool to warm climates (10–24°C/50–75°F); sensitive to extreme heat during grain development.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitAnnual, herbaceous, tufted grass.
Mature SizeTypically 60–100 cm (2–3.3 ft) tall.
Growth RateFast growing; matures in about 100–130 days after sowing.
BloomingSmall, inconspicuous flowers (spikelets) form in inflorescences known as spikes.
DormancyNo true dormancy; completes lifecycle in a single season.
Propagation
MethodsSeed sowing
DifficultyEasy; direct sowing is standard.
Best SeasonFall or spring, depending on climate and wheat type (winter or spring wheat).
Maintenance & Notes
PruningNot required; remove weeds to minimize competition.
RepottingNot applicable as it is field-grown annually.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to rusts, smuts, powdery mildew, aphids, and nematodes.
ToxicityNon-toxic; widely consumed by humans and animals.
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