*Presenting author Md. Farhad; email ID: md.farhad@bwmri.gov.bd

The Indo Gangetic Plain, often referred to as the South Asian breadbasket, plays a critical role in feeding a substantial portion of the world’s population. However, climate change poses significant challenges to wheat production in this region. Early planting has been found to be beneficial for boosting wheat yield, especially in the face of climate change. While it has been proven beneficial in most regions of the Indo Gangetic Plain, it has not been extensively studied in short-wintered areas like Bangladesh.

A study assessed the feasibility of early planting strategies for spring wheat in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, by comparing the results with Ludhiana, Punjab, India. Specifically, we investigated the impact of early planting on yield, heading days, grain filling duration, and other relevant parameters. Field trials were conducted in the BWMRI research field in Dinajpur and compared with previously established results from trials in the BISA research field at Ludhiana.

The research compared early planting (before the typical sowing window) with timely planting (within the recommended period). Bangladeshi wheat genotypes were used in Dinajpur, while CIMMYT developed advanced lines were utilized in Ludhiana, Punjab, India. Increased heading days were exhibited and extended grain filling duration with early planting in Ludhiana. This ensured better source-to-sink dynamics and ultimately higher yields.

In Dinajpur, early planting led to fewer days to heading, but the grain filling duration remained similar across planting times. Early planting significantly boosted yield in Ludhiana. Some wheat varieties were already released to support farmers’ demand for early planting for India.

In contrast, early planting in Dinajpur resulted in lower average yields compared to timely planting. Heat stress during the early season affected flowering time, potentially forcing early heading in Dinajpur. Prolonged vegetative periods, known to enhance yield, were not observed in the Bangladeshi environment.

The search for heat-tolerant genes and germplasms remains crucial to support successful early wheat establishment in Bangladesh. Developing varieties specifically adapted to short winter conditions is essential. Early planting strategies have varying impacts on spring wheat yield in different regions. While Ludhiana benefits from extended grain filling duration, Dinajpur faces challenges related to heat stress.

This study underscores the need for tailored approaches to wheat cultivation based on local conditions and genetic resources.