Talvevehnä

Talvevehnä, also known as winter wheat, is a variety of wheat that is sown in the autumn before the ground freezes. This allows the seeds to germinate and establish a root system before winter sets in. The young plants then overwinter and resume growth in the spring, maturing and being harvested in the summer. This contrasts with spring wheat, which is sown in the spring.

The primary advantage of winter wheat is its potential for higher yields. The longer growing season allows the plants more time to develop, leading to more grain. Additionally, winter wheat can help prevent soil erosion. The established crop covers the soil during the winter months, protecting it from wind and rain, which can otherwise wash away loose soil.

Winter wheat requires a period of cold temperatures, known as vernalization, to trigger its reproductive development. This is why it is sown in the fall and successfully overwinters in regions with sufficiently cold winters. The specific types and varieties of winter wheat are adapted to different climates and soil conditions, with breeding efforts focused on improving cold tolerance, disease resistance, and yield potential.

Globally, winter wheat is a significant crop, contributing substantially to the world's wheat supply. It is a staple food source for many populations and is used in a wide variety of baked goods and other food products. The cultivation of winter wheat is a key component of agricultural practices in many temperate regions.