Wheat quality looking great

Results from 350 wheat samples collected from grain elevators across Ontario indicate this year’s crop has much better than average quality.

More than 99 per cent of the samples graded No. 2 or better, test weights were strong, moisture levels good and protein and falling numbers for both soft red winter and soft winter wheat were good, according to Dana Dickerson, manager of market development for Grain Farmers of Ontario.

These results plus flour-milling trials at the University of Guelph will be used to promote the Ontario crop to export customers.

The crop was smaller than average because wet weather at fall planting time reduced acreage.

Sophie Krolikowski, cereals specialist with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said there were few insect challenges this year.

Yields in southwestern Ontario were near to below average.

In the northern and eastern parts of the province, yields of 90 to 100 bushels an acre were common on good soils and in the 70s on light soils.