Barley Explorer

Barley variety Explorer is a mid-late spring barley with a vegetation period from 69 to 80 days. The plant is of medium height, with a cylindrical loose ear of medium density and long barbed rachises. The grain is very large, with the mass of 1000 grains varying from 45 to 56 grams. The variety belongs to the nudans group and is characterized by strong anthocyanin pigmentation of the flag leaf ears and a waxy coating on the sheath of lower leaves. The plant is resistant to lodging and drought, which ensures crop stability in various climatic conditions. Explorer has good resistance to diseases: high resistance to powdery mildew and net blotch, moderate resistance to covered smut and loose smut, but susceptible to helminthosporiosis. The average yield of the variety in the region is about 33.9 centners per hectare, with a maximum potential of up to 110.6 centners. Protein content in the grain ranges from 12.2-13.8%, which makes it particularly valuable for the brewing industry. To achieve optimal results when growing the variety, limited nitrogen fertilizer application up to 40 kg/hectare of active substance at sowing is recommended, as well as the use of phosphorus-potassium fertilizers at a rate of 40 kg/hectare in autumn or spring. The sowing rate is 400–450 viable seeds per square meter. The variety is recommended for cultivation in various regions, including the Central Black Earth Region, Polesie, Steppe, and Forest Steppe, which confirms its adaptability and versatility in agronomy.