When sown into a moist seedbed, shallower-sown seed will emerge sooner, with a more vigorous seedling.
What to look for
Paddock
Pale and weaker plants that are more frequent in softer soil areas or along seeding rows.
Early sown crops are less affected than those sown in cold wet conditions.
Plant
Weaker less developed seedlings.
Pale horizontal " football sock" stripes on seedling leaves.
Very deep sown seedlings may fail to emerge.
Seedlings are more susceptible to other stresses such as root disease, nematodes or water-logging.
Where does it occur?
The importance of seeding depth to maximise crop potential is recognised by most growers. As a general rule, the shorter the coleoptile length of a cereal variety, the more accurate the seed placement needs to be.
The coleoptile protects the first wheat or barley leaf as it pushes through to the soil surface.
Management strategies
Choose long coleoptile varieties if seeding deep to access soil moisture.
