Row Spacing Effects on Small Grain Varieties at Maricopa

Abstract

A 12-inch row spacing is commonly used to evaluate small grain varieties at the Maricopa Agricultural Center and other experiment stations. The objective of this study was to document the interactions of varieties and row spacings. Sir barley, durum, and wheat varieties were planted in the 1989 and 1990 growing seasons at the Maricopa Agricultural Center at four planting dates (November, December, January, February) and 6 and 12-inch row spacings. At the December planting date, which is near optimum, WestBred 881 and Topaz performed best at a 6-inch row spacing while Gustoe, Aldura, Klasic, and WestBred 911 performed best at a 12-inch row spacing. Caution must be exercised when interpreting variety trials planted in 12-inch rows anti, in addition, conducted under growing conditions different from commercial practice.