Fertilization of winter wheat in spring is one of the most important fertilization periods, directly affecting the quality and quantity of yield. After the winter dormancy, winter wheat requires effective regeneration and the supply of essential nutrients. At this stage, it is crucial not only to apply nitrogen but also to address micronutrient deficiencies through foliar feeding.

What should winter wheat be fertilized with in spring?

The importance of foliar feeding in the spring fertilization of winter wheat

Effective spring fertilization of winter wheat should be based on precisely selected treatments that meet the plant’s nutritional needs depending on their developmental stage. The goal of spring fertilization is not only to stimulate growth but also to enhance stress resistance and improve the uptake and utilization of mineral nutrients such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium.

Foliar feeding of wheat is essential, especially during critical growth periods.

Foliar fertilization of winter wheat provides the following benefits:

• Very fast and efficient uptake and use of nutrients by the plants.

• Balancing and equalizing the proportions of nutrients.

• Enhanced uptake of nutrients from the soil.

• Reduction of negative effects of stress on the plants.

• Prevention and elimination of physiological disorders caused by deficiencies of essential elements.

• Increased plant resistance to diseases.

• Improved quality parameters of the yield.
  

Spring fertilization of winter wheat with micronutrients

In the case of winter wheat, micronutrients such as copper, manganese, and zinc are particularly important. Their adequate supply from the full tillering stage (BBCH 25–28) to the beginning of stem elongation (BBCH 30) allows the crop to reach a high yield potential.

Copper — support for tillering and grain quality in wheat

Copper stimulates tillering, thereby improving the yield potential. Additionally, it enhances the efficiency of nitrogen fertilization, which leads to better grain filling and higher gluten content. The plant’s highest demand for this element occurs from stem elongation to flowering, which is why it is advisable to start copper application at the beginning of spring vegetation.

Manganese – healthy plants and a strong root system

Manganese supports the uptake of mineral nutrients, including phosphorus, which promotes root system development. It also increases disease resistance and supports the production of flavonoids that protect against pathogens. Early application of manganese is especially important under cool weather conditions.

Zinc – increased resistance and fertilization efficiency

Zinc improves wheat’s resistance to drought, cold, and diseases. It influences sugar metabolism and auxin synthesis, which play a significant role in plant development.

In addition to the elements mentioned above, it is also worth considering foliar feeding with molybdenum and iron, especially during periods of intensive growth.

Effectiveness of spring fertilization of wheat – what does it depend on?

The effectiveness of foliar fertilization of winter wheat with micronutrients depends on the timing of the treatment, the type of product used, and the form in which the micronutrients are complexed. It is crucial that they are readily available to plants even at lower temperatures. In this context, fertilizers containing glycine stand out in particular, as the combination of micronutrients with this amino acid ensures the highest efficacy in cereal cultivation in early spring.

AMINO ULTRA® – use it in spring fertilization of wheat

The AMINO ULTRA® line of fertilizers based on the patented GCAA technology, is a response to the needs of modern agriculture. Products in this line contain a complex of micronutrients with the amino acid glycine, enabling ultra-fast penetration of nutrients through the leaves and their effective transport within the plant.

For wheat, the fertilizer AMINO ULTRA® CEREALS is especially recommended, as it contains optimal doses of copper, manganese, and zinc – key elements for high yield and grain quality. These fertilizers are not only effective but also environmentally friendly – thanks to low application rates and the use of natural complexing agents.