Grain yield of promising and new winter wheat varieties depending on different sowing dates in the Southern Ukraine
Authors:   Odessa State Agricultural Research Station of the Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of NAAS, Pochkolina S. V. , Коhut І. М. ,   Odessa State Agricultural Research Station of the Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of NAAS, Serhieiev L. А. ,   Odessa State Agricultural Research Station of the Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of NAAS, Мelnyk О. Т. ,   Odessa State Agricultural Research Station of the Institute of Climate-Smart Agriculture of NAAS
Published: February 2025

Topicality. In the contemporary period, due to gradual climate changes, the study of growth and development peculiarities of various varieties of winter wheat depending on sowing dates is of both scientific and practical interest. Unfortunately, in the conditions of the Southern Steppe of Ukraine, these issues are insufficiently studied, characterized by the presence of debatable points, and conclusions of individual experts show significant discrepancies. Numerous scientific research and practical experience confirm that the problem of yield and grain quality is critically acute in the Southern region of our country and requires more detailed examination. Purpose. To test and adapt innovative grain production technologies for new winter wheat varieties to the region's conditions, ensuring the genetic potential level of their yield and grain quality. Materials and Methods. The primary method used was field research, complemented by analytical investigations, measurements, calculations, and observations according to commonly accepted methodologies and guidelines in Agriculture and Crop Science. The study involved 10 varieties of winter wheat. Sowing was conducted in three dates: September 25, October 5, and October 15. Results. The study presents the results of investigating the influence of sowing dates on the yield and grain quality of various varieties of winter wheat in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine. It was established that all studied winter wheat varieties produced the highest yields at sowing on 5 October. In this case, the average yield over two years (2021–2022) was 10.9 % higher compared to the September 25 sowing date and 11.1 % higher compared to the October 15 sowing date. In 2023, compared to sowing date of 25 September, the grain yield of winter wheat was 10.2 % higher for sowing of 5 October and 8.3 % higher for sowing of 15 October, which is mathematically proven. The highest average yield over two years (2021–2022) was achieved for the following varieties when sowing on October 5: Dovira Odeska (4.03 t/ha), Storytsia (3.90 t/ha), Palitra (3.80 t/ha), Zhytnytsia Odeska (3.68 t/ha). The lowest yield was obtained in the Veteran variety (3.24 t/ha). In 2023, the highest yield for the October 5 sowing date was achieved by the following varieties: Katrusia Odeska (5.16 t/ha), Pokrovska (4.48 t/ha), Hospodarka Odeska (4.28 t/ha), Udacha Odeska (4.08 t/ha). Conclusions. Sowing of winter wheat is advisable to be carried out within optimal dates, specifically in early October (5.10). This approach will lead to the best results in terms of yield, income, and profitability.
Key words: sowing dates, winter wheat, promising varieties, yield