To help winter wheat survive the cold season, check these key indicators:

• Growth stage: the plant should be in the tillering phase (3–5 shoots).

• Height: 10–15 cm — the ideal size before winter.

• Tillers: 3–5 strong tillers per plant.

• Roots: well-developed with secondary roots.

• Tillering node: located 1–3 cm above the soil surface.

⚠️ What happens if wheat isn’t ready?

• 🔻 Few tillers → fewer productive stems in spring.

• 🔻 Poor root development → low nutrient reserves and weak spring regrowth.

• 🔻 No tillering phase → high risk of winterkill due to low cold tolerance.