Effect of cultural practices on growth and vigor of Kernza in the field

Sreejith Thodamkannath

Master's thesis

Abstract:

In agriculture, it's important to ensure that new technologies and practices don't harm the environment. These innovations should also be accessible and effective for farmers. Furthermore, they should contribute to improving food productivity. Wheat, among all primary crops, occupies a significant portion of the global arable land and makes a substantial contribution to overall global production. However, wheat cultivation also encounters challenges in soil health due to excessive or improper tillage, leading to issues such as soil erosion, disrupted structure, and degradation of organic matter. The transition to a perennial farming system, particularly in comparison to annual or biennial wheat cultivation, brings forth a range of social, environmental, and economic advantages. Intermediate wheatgrass (IWG) has substantial genetic similarity to wheat, but the grain characteristics and management of this species is not interchangeable with wheat and requires further investigation. This study examined five varieties of IWG growth and subsequent yield under distinct seasonal conditions and row spacing to generally understand the possibilities for this crop in Czech conditions. A field experiment was established with planting dates in Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 in Uhřineves, CZ as a randomized complete block design with three replications. The planting date and variety significantly influenced IWG yield however, row spacing did not show a significant main effect on yield. Additionally, we also observed a marginally significant interaction between planting date and row spacing suggesting a potential combined influence on yield. As the inaugural field-based study conducted in the Czech Republic, our research represents a pioneering effort to investigate the good agricultural practices and the economic viability of IWG. This study provides a unique opportunity to generate novel insights and scientific knowledge within the Czech agricultural context. By undertaking this pioneering study, we aim to lay the foundation for future research and practical applications in the field.

Keywords

Intermediate wheatgrass (IWG), Sustainable Agriculture, Perennial farming system, Yield, Row spacing, Variety, Planting date

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 22. 4. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 23. 5. 2024
• Supervisor: Theresa Ann Piskáčková, Ph.D.
• Reader: Eric Jones, BSc, externi

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources

Master programme:
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security