Climate: Wheat is a Rabi crop, sown in October-November and harvested by the end of April. It requires a mild climate for growth, with ample sunlight and water essential for a good yield.

Temperature: The ideal temperature for wheat growth ranges between 20-25°C. Temperatures above 27°C negatively affect the crop, hindering growth due to excess energy loss. Both excessively high or low temperatures during flowering can be harmful.

Water Demand: Wheat requires around 350-600 mm of water. During the early stages, moist conditions are crucial, while a warmer climate is needed during harvest. On average, the crop requires 55 cm of water during its 120-day growing cycle, with 100 mm of rainfall during this period.

Soil: Wheat can be grown in various soil types, but loamy or clay soils with medium water-holding capacity are ideal. The soil pH should be between 6-7. If the pH is below 6, lime should be added; for a pH above 7, gypsum is recommended.

Major Varieties: 

Farmers should choose high-yield and disease-resistant varieties suitable for their region. Some prominent varieties include:

• HI-1077: Matures in 115-125 days, yields 50-55 quintals/hectare, and requires 4-5 irrigations.
• GW-322: Matures in 120-130 days with a similar yield.
• DBW 222 (Karan Narendra): Resistant to rust, yields up to 61.3 quintals/hectare, and is suitable for late sowing.

Sowing of Crops: Before sowing, seeds should be soaked overnight, and proper spacing should be maintained. It's recommended to use organic manure after sowing for better results.

Suitable Time for Sowing: In northwestern plains, the ideal time for sowing is early November. For northeastern areas, mid-November is suitable. Late sowing (after December 15) can result in significant yield loss.

Field Preparation: Deep plowing is beneficial, and a seed drill should be used for uniform sowing depth and spacing. Loosen the soil with tools like a disc harrow and ensure the field is level for proper seed germination.

Crop Cycle: Wheat crop rotation with other crops like barley, clover, or fodder helps maintain soil health and livestock breeding throughout the year.

Water Management: Wheat needs around 35-40 cm of water. Timely irrigation is crucial, especially during earhead emergence. Typically, 4-6 irrigations are required, depending on the soil type.

Weed Management: Regular weeding is necessary to ensure healthy crop growth. Weeds can be controlled manually or with selective herbicides.

Harvesting: Wheat is ready for harvesting 110-120 days after sowing when the grains are fully mature.

Diseases & Disease Prevention:

1. Rust Disease (Ratua): Appears in February-April, primarily in central and northeastern India. Symptoms include black spots on stems and leaves. Prevention involves timely sowing and balanced use of fertilizers.
2. Loose Smut: Causes black powdery patches on wheat spikes. Affected plants should be removed and buried.
3. Powdery Mildew: Appears as white powder on leaf surfaces. Sulfur or Carbendazim can be used to control it.
4. Termites: Affects the plant from root to stem. Applying Chlorpyrifos before sowing can help.
5. Army Worm: Causes up to 40% damage, feeding on leaves and young plants. Regular monitoring and early intervention are necessary.
6. Aphids (Champa): Suck sap from leaves and spikes, turning them yellow. Imidacloprid can be used to control aphids