Question

In wheat, the most critical stage for irrigation is

• A. CRI stage
• B. Tillering stage
• C. Jointing stage
• D. Milking stage

Hint:

Priority of irrigation in wheat:
1 Irrigation: CRI (21 DAS).
2 Irrigations: CRI + Flowering.
3 Irrigations: CRI + Late jointing + Milking.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Critical crop growth stages are physiological phases during which water stress causes the most severe, irreversible yield reductions.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{CRI Stage} \approx 20 - 25 \text{ Days After Sowing (DAS)} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Wheat (Triticum aestivum) has six distinct growth stages:
1. Crown Root Initiation (CRI): 20--25 DAS (Most critical stage). Moisture stress at CRI severely restricts root development and tiller formation.
2. Tillering: 40--45 DAS.
3. Late Jointing: 60--65 DAS.
4. Flowering Anthesis: 80--85 DAS.
5. Milking: 100--105 DAS.
6. Dough stage: 115--120 DAS.
If only one irrigation is available, it must strictly be applied at the CRI stage.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the most critical stage for irrigation in wheat is the CRI stage, matching option (A).