STEPNYAK

STEPNYAK — a spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) variety with a medium-early maturity period, intended for grain-fodder and brewing use. The plant is medium-height with a semi-erect or erect stem. The ear is pyramidal, loose, of medium density, with long awned bristles and weak or medium anthocyanin pigmentation. The grain is large with a non-hairy ventral groove; the mass of 1000 grains ranges from 39 to 48 grams. The sheaths of the lower leaves are smooth and hairless, while the waxy coating on the sheaths and ear is of medium intensity. The variety is distinguished by lodging resistance at the level of and above regional standards, as well as medium drought tolerance. Under field conditions, STEPNYAK demonstrates good resistance to net blotch and powdery scab, although moderate susceptibility to loose smut and root rots is noted in some regions. Protein content in the grain reaches 13.4%, making it attractive for the brewing industry and feed use. Yield varies by region: in the North Caucasus region, the average yield is about 33.2 c/ha, in the Lower Volga region — 30.2 c/ha, with maximum figures reaching 53.7 c/ha, recorded in the Stavropol Krai. STEPNYAK is well adapted to various climatic conditions, including steppe and forest-steppe zones, confirmed by its successful cultivation in various regions of Russia and Western Siberia. Due to its undemanding nature to weather conditions and high agronomic indicators, the variety is widely used for malt production, cereals, feed, and brewing. Seed quality meets standards, ensuring crop stability and high profitability of cultivation.