FAQ - Triticale

Below you will find some frequently asked questions on triticale. We hope you find the answer to your query. If you need further information please email us or call us on 01223 890777.

Is triticale suitable for bioethanol production?

In many ways triticale should be the cereal of preference for ethanol as it combines high starch and relatively low protein. This provides an excellent feedstock for conversion from starch to ethanol, giving high spirit yields. With the better growing cost efficiency of triticale (lower cost per tonne), it should also bring economic beneifts.

Does triticale offer a Take-All break?

Winter triticale has demonstrated a high tolerance but we cannot say categorically that it has a resistance to Take All as oats do.

What inputs do you need for triticale?

Triticale is generally a low input crop and has a low management demand. Keep an eye out for mildew and occasionally yellow rust as some crops may need treatment.

Which are the best organic triticale varieties?

Benetto has been our most popular variety for organic growers due to its high yields and tall but stiff straw.

Which triticale varieties can I use Chlortoluron on?

See www.mauk.co.uk for the full list of triticale varieties.

What yield can I reasonably expect from a crop of triticale?

The yield of triticale can be compared favourably to wheat and barley on marginal soils, as a low input crop. Yields of 8-9 t/ha with stiff-strawed varieties such as Grenado can be achieved in more fertile conditions with the use of inputs.

How can I market triticale?

Historically triticale has been predominantly grown for feed. There is now increased interest in triticale for whole crop silage and potential bioethanol production. Spring triticale is also used for cover.

What is the latest sowing date for spring sown triticale?

Winter triticale requires less vernalisation than wheat but the latest sowing date is dependent on variety. Under favourable conditions our experience to date suggests that some varieties have been successfully grown over the years planted up to early-mid March. Later plantings are always at grower's risk. With spring triticale the date varies regionally. There is limited data on this crop to date, so it is perhaps sensible to follow dates for spring wheat.

What is the typical nitrogen input for a winter triticale crop?

Triticale as a crop is responsive to nitrogen. On lighter soils the suggested rate is 130kg/ha. The stiffer-strawed varieties perform particularly well at the higher rates of around 170kg/ha. However, seed growers have had very favourable yields with the variety Grenado with lower rates. Care should be taken with spring applications, which can increase the risk of lodging. First nitrogen applications should be made in late February with the main application prior to first node.

Which are the best organic varieties?

Taller varieties have often been preferred for organic systems. Senova variety Ego was popular for many years. This has now been superceded by Benetto with its long, but very stiff straw.

Senova Ltd, 49 North Road, Great Abington, Cambridge CB21 6AS Tel: +44 (0)1223 890777, Fax: +44 (0)1223 890666 Email: info@senova.uk.com

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