Ancient spring wheat production in Wyoming

Abstract

The ancient wheats einkorn (Triticum monococcum L.), emmer (Triticum turgidum L.), and spelt (Triticum spelta L.) are currently attracting renewed consumer interest due to their unique flavor profiles and high nutritional quality compared with modern bread (Triticum aestivum L.) and durum (Triticum durum L.) wheat. Ancient wheats are well suited for production in marginal lands and may be well adapted to Wyoming growing conditions. A 2-year study was conducted in three locations in Wyoming (Powell, Sheridan, and Lingle, WY) under irrigated and rainfed conditions to identify the agronomic potential of spring planted spelt, emmer, and einkorn in Wyoming. Across locations, grain yields averaged 832 lbs acre⁻¹ for einkorn, 1,492 lbs acre⁻¹ for emmer, and 1064 lbs acre⁻¹ for spelt with 14.7–15.9% protein. In 2017, irrigated spring wheat yield in Wyoming averaged 3642 lbs acre⁻¹ and dryland yield averaged 1020 lbs acre⁻¹. The Powell irrigated location was the highest yielding and perhaps the best suited for ancient wheat production. Continued research on variety selection and management is needed to further improve the yield and profitability of ancient wheats in Wyoming.