Origin:
Triticum turgidum dicoccoides, commonly known as wild emmer or the progenitor of modern wheat, is a subspecies of Triticum turgidum, which is one of the first crops in human history. The plant is believed to have originated in the Fertile Crescent, an area that extends from the eastern Mediterranean to western Asia. It has been an important food source for humans for thousands of years.
Common Names:
Aside from being called wild emmer or the progenitor of modern wheat, Triticum turgidum dicoccoides also goes by various names such as "emmer," "farro," "hulled wheat," and "spelt." The name "emmer" comes from the Germanic word "amara," which means "harsh" or "bitter" and refers to the plant's hard husk that surrounds the kernel.
Uses:
Triticum turgidum dicoccoides has several uses. It is commonly grown as a cereal crop for its grain, which is used to make flour for bread, pasta, and other baked goods. The plant's grain is also used in animal feed. In addition, it has been used for medicinal purposes by Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for the treatment of various diseases.
General Appearance:
The Triticum turgidum dicoccoides plant is an annual grass that grows up to two meters tall. It has a single stem with numerous leaves and produces spikelets containing two or three grains. The plant's grain is covered by a tough hull, which must be removed before it can be used for food. The plant is hardy and can grow in a wide range of conditions, including dry and arid regions.
Light requirements
The Triticum turgidum dicoccoides, commonly known as emmer wheat, requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but will not thrive in low light conditions. As a result, it is commonly cultivated in areas with plenty of sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Emmer wheat is a hardy plant that can thrive in a wide range of temperatures. Optimal temperature for germination is between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius (50-68 degrees Fahrenheit). After germination, the plant grows best at temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it can survive high temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) and can tolerate frost up to -4 degrees Celsius (25 degrees Fahrenheit).
Soil requirements
The Triticum turgidum dicoccoides plant thrives in well-drained soils, rich in organic matter and with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. It grows best in loam soils but can also grow in sandy and clay soils. Good water-holding capacity is essential, but waterlogging must be avoided. The plant is sensitive to soil salinity and alkalinity, and it is advisable to monitor these factors when cultivating emmer wheat.
Cultivation Methods
Triticum turgidum dicoccoides, also known as the Emmer wheat, is a crop that requires a moderate climate and a well-drained soil type to grow properly. Before planting, it is essential to prepare the soil by removing stones, dead plants, and weeds. This process will facilitate the easy penetration of the root system, which is crucial for proper development.
Plant the seeds in rows with a distance of at least 10 to 15 cm between them. The optimal depth of planting should not exceed more than 3 cm. Ensure that the soil is moist when planting the seeds.
Watering Needs
The Emmer wheat plant requires moderate watering to grow and produce a yield. However, it is essential to ensure that the water reaches the root zone of the plant. The frequency of watering is dependent on the weather conditions. In dry conditions, it is crucial to water the plant every three days. Frequently checking the soil moisture using a moisture meter helps to ensure that the plant is getting the right amount of water required to grow and produce a yield.
Fertilization
Fertilizers are essential for the healthy growth of the Emmer wheat plant. It is crucial to apply fertilizers that contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizers should be applied before planting and during subsequent stages of growth. During the growth stage, it is advisable to apply the fertilizers when the plant has reached a height of 15cm and then after every four weeks.
Pruning
The Emmer wheat plant does not require pruning since it can grow on its own without any training. However, removing the top of the plant before harvesting can increase the grain yield. Additionally, cutting off dead or weak plants can prevent the occurrence of pest and disease attacks.
Propagation of Triticum turgidum dicoccoides
Triticum turgidum dicoccoides, also known as Emmer wheat, is often propagated through seeds. The seeds need to be collected at the right time, which is after the grains inside the spike have turned hard. This is usually around late summer or early fall. The seeds need to be cleaned and stored properly until planting season arrives.
Seed Propagation
When it's time to plant, the seeds should be sowed in well-draining soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Emmer wheat doesn't need a lot of water to germinate, so overwatering should be avoided. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 2 to 3 inches, and they should be spaced about 6 inches apart. After planting, the soil should be gently pressed down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Within a few weeks, the seeds will begin to germinate. Emmer wheat prefers cooler temperatures, so planting in the fall or early spring is ideal. During the growing season, the plants will require regular watering, but again, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Vegetative Propagation
Although less common, Triticum turgidum dicoccoides can also be propagated vegetatively. This involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant and planting them in soil. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. They should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly. However, this method is less reliable and less commonly used compared to seed propagation.
Overall, seed propagation is the preferred method for propagating Triticum turgidum dicoccoides. With the right care and conditions, this plant can be easily propagated and grown successfully.
Disease and Pest Management for Triticum Turgidum Dicoccoides
Triticum turgidum dicoccoides, commonly known as wild emmer, is a wheat species that grows in the Middle East and is the ancestor of cultivated wheat varieties. As with any plant, it is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases to affect wild emmer is leaf rust. This fungal disease develops small, yellowish-orange spots on leaves, which soon turn reddish-brown and form pustules. To manage leaf rust, farmers can use fungicides and practice crop rotation to avoid planting wheat in infected soil.
Another disease that can affect wild emmer is powdery mildew. This fungal disease covers leaves and stems with a thin, powdery growth that hinders photosynthesis and eventually weakens the plant. To manage powdery mildew, farmers can use biological control agents such as Bacillus subtilis or apply fungicides. Planting resistant varieties can also help prevent the spread of powdery mildew.
Pests
The most common pest to affect wild emmer is the Hessian fly. This insect lays its eggs on the leaves of young plants, and when the larvae emerge, they feed on the stem, killing the plant. To manage Hessian flies, farmers can use resistant varieties, or employ cultural control methods such as delayed planting or crop rotation. Insecticides can also be used, but they should be used judiciously and with caution.
Another pest that can affect wild emmer is the wheat stem sawfly. This insect feeds on the stem and can weaken or even kill the plant. To manage wheat stem sawflies, farmers can use resistant varieties, or employ cultural control methods such as planting wheat later in the season. Insecticides can also be used, but they should be used with caution, as they can harm beneficial insects as well.
By being aware of the common diseases and pests that can affect wild emmer, and taking preventive measures such as using resistant varieties, applying fungicides or insecticides judiciously, practicing crop rotation, and delaying planting, farmers can keep their crops healthy and productive.
