Kolyada — a high-yield winter wheat variety of the Western European type, widely cultivated in various regions, including the Polissia, Forest-Steppe, and Steppe. This medium-early variety is characterized by a short stem and high tillering, reaching a maximum height of about 95 cm. The vegetation period lasts approximately 280-285 days. The variety is distinguished by high cold tolerance (7.9-8.4) and drought resistance (7.8-8.6), enabling it to successfully withstand adverse climatic conditions. Additionally, Kolyada is resistant to lodging, shattering, pre-harvest sprouting, as well as diseases such as leaf rust, powdery mildew, septoria, fusarium, and root rots, ensuring stable yields and grain quality.
The yield potential of the Kolyada variety is high: it reaches up to 94 c/ha, with regional average yields ranging from 59.6 to 71.2 c/ha. The variety responds well to high mineral nutrition levels, forming record yields with proper agronomic practices. Protein content in the grain ranges from 13.1-14.5%, ensuring good baking and milling qualities. Flour strength is 264-373 Brabender units, and bread volume from 100 g of flour reaches 1050-1100 ml. These characteristics make Kolyada a sought-after variety for grain usage.
To achieve maximum productivity, cultivation using intensive technology with fertilizers and protective measures is recommended. Fertilizers are applied in autumn and early spring, followed by nitrogen top-dressings during stem elongation and before grain formation. To prevent lodging on high mineral nutrition levels, retardants are used. Also, 2-3 applications of disease and pest protection are necessary. Optimal sowing dates are from September 20 to October 5, with a seeding rate of 4.5-5.5 million seeds per hectare. Thanks to its resilience, high yield, and grain quality, the Kolyada variety is one of the most popular and reliable winter wheat varieties.
