Plant development and grain yield in spring and winter barley

Abstract

Summary: The development of spring and winter barley sown in both the spring and autumn has been followed in two seasons. The rates of development were similar in both types for autumn sowings but the spring types developed faster in spring sowings. Differences in the rate of development were related to photoperiod and temperature although soil water stress modified variety response. Yields were higher from autumn and early spring sowings. Sowing in April resulted in a considerable reduction in yield. The significance of these results for barley breeders is discussed.