Growers still looking to plant quality wheat this season shouldn’t rush into spring varieties just yet, advises a top UK miller.

“None of the current spring varieties will give a bonus over a late-drilled Xi19 at the right protein levels, says Heygates’ Wheat Procurement Manager, George Mason. 

And reaching those high protein levels is more achievable when the variety is drilled later.

Xi19 has a real place in the bread-making market, says Mr Mason, especially as Malacca has fallen out of favour with growers due to low bushel weights last harvest. So whereas Solstice will be the NABIM Group 1 yield leader and Hereward the quality leader, Xi19 will suit the growers who know how to manage the variety for the best results.

“Because it has such high yield potential, the industry’s biggest concern with Xi19 has been the protein dilution factor and we have been concerned that growers treat it properly and apply the appropriate nitrogen programme.

“There are farmers who tried it and didn’t grow it correctly, who perhaps didn’t realise the extent of its potential yield. Now growers going for that top grade market have learnt through experience and can capitalise on the flexibility that the variety has with regard to sowing date.”

Nickerson breeder, Bill Angus, agrees with this approach. “Xi19 is an exciting variety but, as with all varieties, it is important to understand its various nuances. We will be publishing a Xi19 husbandry guide to give growers the insight into getting both the yield and quality right. The rewards available to those growers who meet the millers’ specification are worth that little extra attention to detail.”