Small-Scale Spatial Variability in Winter Wheat Production

Spatial variability is well documented in agricultural crops. Research has shown that average differences in grain yield for neighboring corn (Zea mays L.) plants can vary by as much as 4211 kg ha(-1); however, little work has been done in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to determine the amount and scale of spatial variability that exists in grain yields. This study used 22-mx0.9-m transects, partitioned in 0.9-mx0.9-m subplots, to document the spatial variability that occurred in winter wheat yields. Average yields of each transect ranged from 1023 to 3807 kg ha(-1). Within transects, there was a 1.7- to 2.3-fold difference between the highest and lowest yielding units. This study documented large levels of variability over distances of <1 m. Agronomists working toward precisely managing crop inputs for their most efficient use should account for spatial variability, as significant differences in winter wheat grain yield were found in adjacent 1-mx1-m plots.