By Wallas Mendes and Patrick Copeland et.al
To maximize winter wheat yields, crop canopy architecture should be designed to optimize light interception and its conversion efficiency to biomass and finally grains.
This can be achieved by optimizing planting decisions such as row spacing, seed placement, varietal canopy architecture and seeding rates. Previous research conducted in Michigan (Figure 1) has evaluated practices like combining the use of precision planting with narrow row spacing (5 inches) and their impact on winter wheat yield. Small-plot trials demonstrated a yield advantage ranging from 2.4% to 25.8% across four site years, shedding light on the benefits of narrow row spacing combined with the use of precision planting equipment.
