FAQ
Q What is Red Wheat?
A Red Wheat is Hard milling Wheat, which is valued for its exceptional bread-making qualities.
Q What is A C Barrie?
A A C Barrie is a variety of Red wheat and is the only variety that can be grown in the UK that compares with Canadian grown – which is why HOVIS want to buy this variety.
Q Where does Red Wheat fit in the rotation?
A It is suitable for medium or strong soils, sown anytime from early November through to April. It is ideal as a later sown first Wheat after Potatoes, Sugar beet, etc or as a second cereal.
Q Does Red Wheat perform consistently?
A Yes, it is bred to produce consistent quality and to maintain that quality, even under adverse conditions. 97% of crops grow since 2003 have passed for milling. The most consistent yields have come from Spring sowing.
Q Doesn't A C Barrie have a low yield compared to conventional wheat?
A Yes, the yield is lower than conventional Wheat - typically 1/2 to 2/3, but this is offset by a considerably higher value.
Q I have heard that A C Barrie is very tall - does this means it lodges badly?
A A C Barrie is a tall variety but it does not lodge.
Q I am worried about getting 16% protein - surely I will need to put large applications of N?
A A C Barrie is naturally high in protein - typical N requirement would be 125kg/ha.
A No, all Red Wheat is grown on contract for supply to the country's largest miller, Rank Hovis, as well as selected regional millers. All production is tightly controlled.
