PAU issues guidelines for wheat sowing in January to ensure optimal yields
As the wheat sowing season for 2024-25 nears its conclusion by the end of November, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has observed a growing demand for its recommended wheat variety, PBW 826, ideal for timely sowing conditions. However, a small portion of the total wheat area remains unsown and for these late sowings, PAU experts have provided a set of best practices to ensure good yields despite the delayed planting.
For farmers planning to sow wheat in the coming weeks, PAU recommends the varieties PBW 752 and PBW 771 for sowing in December, and PBW 757 for sowing in early January.
In addition to selecting the right variety, Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor of PAU, advised farmers to follow key agronomic practices to optimise crop production. For late sowing, the recommended seed rate is 40 kg per acre to achieve an optimum plant population. A closer spacing of 15 cm between plants is also advised to enhance yield potential and effectively control weeds.
For fertilisation, farmers should apply half the dose of urea (45 kg per acre) along with the full dose of phosphorus at the time of sowing. The remaining urea dose (45 kg per acre) should be top-dressed during the first irrigation. For wheat sown after mid-December, the urea dose should be reduced to 35 kg per acre, split between two applications.
Dr Gosal emphasised that by following these guidelines, farmers could ensure healthy growth and achieve high yields, even in the case of late sowing. He also reiterated that PAU would continue to support the farming community with research-based recommendations to improve wheat production across the state.
