Neeson R, Evans J, Burnett V, Luckett D, Wellings C, Taylor H, Raman H, Van Meeuwen E and Bowden P (2008) Optimising the quality and yield of spelt under organic production in SE Australia. In: Unkovich, M.J. (ed). “Global Issues, Paddock Action – Proceedings of the 14th Australian Society of Agronomy Conference, 21 – 25 September, Adelaide, South Australia". Australian Society of Agronomy.

Available online at www.agronomy.org.au.

Summary

Spelt (Triticum aestivum var. spelta), an ancient relative of modern bread wheat, is one of the oldest cultivated grains. Organically produced spelt is in high demand in the health food industry due to its nutritional, milling and taste attributes; however, supply constraints are frustrating industry expansion. Our research aims to identify new and higher yielding cultivars of spelt, better adapted to organic production and which exhibit superior quality attributes. Trials conducted during 2006 – 2007 at 3 sites (Cootamundra and Yanco, SW NSW; Rutherglen Nth Victoria) evaluated the agronomic and quality characteristics of 20 spelt genotypes (from an initial selection of 82) compared to reference crops of common wheat, barley and triticale when grown in an organic production system. Results showed that spelt genotypes:

• yielded 1.8 t/ha less than common wheat on average;
• produced more tillers than wheat in low phosphorus soils but this did not increase spelt yield;
• have a range of tolerances to aluminium;
• vary in their resistance to the cereal diseases stripe rust and stem rust;
• vary in their suitability for graze and grain enterprises.

Our research suggests considerable potential for improvement in spelt genotypes in yield, quality, disease resistance & nutrition management. The project is continuing in 2008-09 with spelt cultivar selection, effect of P fertiliser on spelt nutrition and time of sowing/sowing rate studies. Production guidelines will be available to producers in late 2009.