The influence of sowing dates and pre-sowing crops on the yield of winter wheat in the foothill zone of the Almaty region

Abstract

Background and Aim. The foothill zone of Almaty region offers a favorable agro-climatic for winter wheat cultivation. However, the recent climate fluctuations significantly impact the optimal sowing period, which directly affects winter wheat growth, overwintering, and yield potential. This study evaluated the influence of different sowing dates and preceding crops on the growth dynamics, overwintering ability, and productivity of winter wheat under the specific soil and climatic conditions of this zone.

Materials and Methods. Field experiments were conducted from 2022 to 2024 at the “Agrouniversity” Educational and Production Center of the Kazakh National Agrarian Research University, located in the Almaty region’s foothill zone. The research assessed the effect of sowing dates and two types of preceding crops (perennial grasses and sugar beet) on plant development and grain yield. Experimental plots were managed using standard agronomic practices. Data were statistically analyzed using conventional biometric methods.

Results. The results indicated that sowing date and preceding crop type are critical factors for productive growth and yield formation in winter wheat. Sowing after perennial grasses, yielded optimal results when performed before October 10, where sufficient soil moisture and accumulated heat promoted tillering and overwintering. Following sugar beet, the recommended sowing period was between early and mid-October. Delayed sowing reduced plant growth rates and significantly decreased final grain yield.

Conclusion. Timely sowing and the careful selection of the preceding crop are essential for achieving stable and high winter wheat yields in the Almaty foothill region. The experimental results provide a scientific basis for optimizing winter wheat cultivation technology under current climate conditions and can inform practical recommendations to enhance production efficiency for local farming enterprises.