In wheat, the endosperm contains starch, the bran contain minerals and vitamins, and the embryo contains protein, fat and vitamins. Taking care of the soil is very important for crop growers. Special seeding methods can help prevent erosion of top soil from wind and water. Traditionally, the stubble from the previous year's crop was destroyed and the field was cultivated until a smooth seed bed was prepared. To prevent erosion of topsoil and to save on costs, however, farmers are using different methods.
Some farmers turn the stubble from the previous year back into the ground.
The roots help hold the top soil in place. Wheat roots can penetrate the soil to a depth of 1m. Other farmers use a special seeding technique called minimum or no-till and plant this year's crop into the stubble of last year's crop. This is done by a machine which cuts a slice in the ground, drops in a seed, and covers the seed. This also saves energy and labour because it reduces the number of times that the farmer has to work the field.