2019-124: Barley Lodging – Getting to the Root of the Problem

An average of $6.6 million acres has been seeded into barley each year since 2010. However, lodging is still a significant problem with this crop. While seeding rate, seeding date, and nitrogen application has tempered this issue, genetic resistance has not been a great focus. While stem strength is important, the value of the root system architecture is as well. Developing upon international research showing the value of root system architecture in other plants, this project will assess malt and feed barley varieties to associate root structure difference to lodging observed in the field.