What is a consequence of late planting of spring cereals?

Late planting of spring cereals generally leads to decreased tillering. Tillering is the process by which one main stem produces additional stems (or tillers), which can enhance the overall yield of the crop. The timing of planting has significant effects on the growth stages of the crop, particularly regarding tiller development.

When spring cereals are planted late, they experience a shorter growing season, which limits their ability to develop tillers effectively. The plants may not reach their optimal growth phase before environmental conditions, such as temperature and day length, become less favorable for tiller formation. This can result in fewer tillers, which often correlates directly with yield potential, as each tiller can potentially contribute to the final grain yield.

In contrast, earlier planting allows plants to establish themselves well, thereby promoting healthy tiller development, which is crucial for maximizing yield. The decrease in tillering due to late planting can significantly impact the overall productivity of the cereal crop.