PRODUCTION TIPS



PLANT CHARACTERISTICS AND PRODUCTION
Spelt looks similar to wheat in the field but does have some differences. We feel that spelt can be produced anywhere that winter wheat is raised. Spelt seed has been shipped coast to coast, as far south as the Rio Grande and as far north as Nova Scotia. Spelt requires a dormancy period as does wheat and needs to be well established before dormancy. Spelt will “break-out” in the spring like wheat and will mature about 3-4 days later than a full season wheat. Winterkill has not been any more of a problem in Ohio than with wheat.

FERTILITY
Spelt is more tolerant of variable soil conditions than wheat. It is a tall plant and does not need as high a nitrogen level as wheat. Reduce nitrogen by 10-20%. Phosphorous and Potash levels should be maintained at normal levels. We encourage topdressing with nitrogen in the early spring before tillering begins.

PRODUCTION TIPS ON SPELT
Plant spelt seed after the fly free date up until mid October (dates for northern Ohio). Ideally the crop should be up and show some color before a killing frost. Use 100 pounds or more, depending on seed size, of seed per acre. Set your drill for 3 bushel oats. Plant about 1 inch deep. No-till seeding is also satisfactory. Fertilize the same as wheat in your area, except cut nitrogen to 70% (Here in northern Ohio, that is 50# per acre.) If you have a good stand you should not need weed control. However, if you find that you do need weed control, consult your herbicide specialist for recommendations. Spelt is harvested in late July, after wheat. Anticipate a yield of 3000 pounds per acre. For feed, separate the pod from the stem. Do not expect to thrash the berry out. The quality of spelt straw is excellent.

DISEASE
The major disease concern for spelt production is Barley Yellow Dwarf. A small insect that forages in crop residue transmits this disease. We do not recommend following a small grain crop, especially oats, with spelt. If you must follow a small grain or grass, clean tillage is essential. Commonly used varieties of spelt are also susceptible to a wide range of diseases usually found in wheat, such as powdery mildew, rust and septoria. Given the proper field conditions and weather, these diseases could all reduce yields. Timely planting and adequate fertility will diminish chances of failure. To date no foliar fungicides are labeled for spelt. Another serious disease consideration should be given to loose smut. Loose smut in spelt can be devastating and is a seed-borne disease. Usage of bin-run seed is highly discouraged, as smut incidence has been known to increase by 20-30% each time the seed generation is removed from certified sources. Use only seed that is properly conditioned and treated with a commercial systemic fungicide.