By Scout Nelson
A new episode of the "Wheat’s on Your Mind" (WYOM) podcast spotlights the work of Kansas wheat breeders, sharing how science and strategy combine to develop better wheat for growers across the state.
The discussion focuses on improving wheat varieties by balancing yield and protein, developing value-added traits, and adopting new tools to make breeding faster and more efficient. The podcast offers insights into the large-scale work of Kansas State University’s wheat breeding programs based in Manhattan and Hays.
One of the key highlights is the scale of breeding done annually, including 750 to 1,000 wheat crosses and the evaluation of up to 1.5 million plants. Each year, breeders conduct around 25,000 yield trials at more than a dozen locations, selecting varieties based on disease resistance, plant type, and overall performance.
“In breeding, we’re just building. We’re just making incremental progress over time and building on finding something better, putting it back into the crossing program and trying to find something even better than that,” Fritz said. “It’s a continuous process of improvement.”
Advanced breeding tools like genomic modeling, rapid-cycling, and traits such as high protein, sharp root tips, and high-water absorption are helping breeders target both performance and sustainability.
One standout trait discussed in the episode is BX7OE protein, originally discovered in Red River 68 and linked to Canadian wheat varieties. This protein trait is changing how the industry views the relationship between yield and protein content.
The episode also highlights collaborations with partners in Oklahoma and Mexico that are accelerating progress in developing wheat varieties that meet today’s demands. These efforts aim to keep wheat profitable and viable in Kansas by adding more value to every acre planted.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat