Rainfall boosts wheat crop prospects

Recent downpour replenishes soil moisture

JARANWALA:

Agricultural experts have hailed the recent spell of rainfall as a blessing for wheat growers, ensuring a potential bumper crop and increased profits for farmers while strengthening food security in the country.

Khalid Mehmood, Director of Agriculture (Extension) Faisalabad, highlighted the positive impact of the rain, stating that the wheat crop is currently at the earing and milky stages, where water scarcity could have affected yields.

"The ongoing rainfall has alleviated this scarcity, and with ideal day and night temperatures for flowering and grain filling, we can expect a bumper harvest," he said.

Punjab's wheat sowing target was set at 1.65 million acres, with a production target of 21,150 tons and an estimated per-acre yield of 32.05 quintals. Faisalabad exceeded its sowing target, reaching 1.89 million acres against the set 1.887 million acres.

The region's production goal is 30,348 metric tons, with a per-acre yield target of 38 quintals.

With another spell of rain expected on March 17, Mehmood advised farmers to plan their irrigation schedules accordingly.

"If there is no rain, the final round of irrigation should be completed by March 20. After that, any additional watering could lead to lodging in case of strong winds or storms," he cautioned.

Dr Sajidur Rehman, Director General (Research) Punjab and Chief Scientist at Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, acknowledged that overall rainfall this year has been significantly lower than last year, leading to a drought-like situation, particularly in the Pothohar region, which received four times less rainfall.

"Irrigated areas were less affected, but rain-fed regions suffered considerable crop damage. However, the recent rainfall has helped mitigate losses," he said.

He also noted that the introduction of new wheat varieties has led to improved yields. "Over 99% of Punjab's wheat crop is cultivated using improved varieties developed by the Ayub Agricultural Institute, and farmers' increased interest in these varieties has resulted in higher productivity."

Field surveys indicated that overall crop health is excellent, with uniform growth across fields.

"The high seed replacement ratio and the adoption of new varieties have contributed significantly to these improved yields," he added. According to Sajidur Rehman, despite a slight decline in seed company sales, farmers who used saved seeds from the previous year also reported good yields.

"We expect an average yield of around 35 quintals per acre. However, top-performing districts like Pakpattan and Okara may exceed 40-50 quintals per acre," he estimated.

Dr Javed Ahmad, Director of the Wheat Research Institute, emphasized that the recent rainfall has provided dual benefits.

"Firstly, it has met the water requirements, as canal water levels had been low. Secondly, it has kept temperatures from rising, which is highly beneficial for wheat crops," he explained.

He noted that February had seen a rise in temperatures, but the rain helped maintain a cooler climate, allowing wheat plants to properly develop grains and store nutrients.

"This has been a major blessing for farmers, ensuring a healthier crop," he added. Dr Ahmad also advised farmers to avoid using chemical sprays at this stage, as the wheat is nearing maturity.

"For late-sown crops that show signs of rust, localised spraying can be done. However, for mature crops, there is no need for chemical treatments, as any rust attack at this stage will not cause significant damage," he advised.