How to Grow Barley in Missouri

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a versatile and nutritious grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is utilized not only as a food source but also as livestock feed and in the brewing industry. For Missouri farmers and backyard gardeners looking to diversify their crops, barley can be an excellent choice. This guide will outline how to grow barley successfully in Missouri, covering everything from soil preparation to harvesting.

Understanding Barley

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of growing barley, it’s important to understand this crop. Barley is a cool-season cereal grain that thrives in climates with moderate temperatures. It typically grows best in well-drained, fertile soils and can be sown in both spring and fall. In Missouri, spring barley is more commonly cultivated due to the state’s warm summers.

Benefits of Growing Barley

1. Versatile Crop: Barley can be used for various purposes such as food, animal feed, and brewing.
2. Soil Improvement: It can help improve soil structure and fertility due to its deep root system.
3. Pest Resistance: Barley has a natural resistance to certain pests and diseases, making it easier to manage compared to other grains.
4. Erosion Control: The crop helps prevent soil erosion, especially on sloped lands.

Soil Preparation

Soil Testing

Before planting barley, conduct a soil test to determine nutrient levels and pH. Barley prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. You can obtain a soil test kit from your local agricultural extension office or find labs that offer testing services.

Amendments

Based on the soil test results, you may need to amend your soil with specific nutrients:

• Nitrogen: Barley requires nitrogen for optimal growth. You can use synthetic fertilizers or organic options like compost or manure.
• Phosphorus and Potassium: These essential nutrients can be added based on the soil test recommendations.
• Lime: If your soil is too acidic (pH below 6.0), consider applying lime to raise the pH.

Tillage

Prepare the seedbed by tilling the soil to a depth of about 6–8 inches. This will help break up compacted layers and allow for better root growth. Remove any weeds or debris to ensure a clean environment for your barley seeds.

Selecting Barley Varieties

Choosing the right barley variety is crucial for a successful harvest in Missouri’s climate. The two primary types of barley are:

1. Two-Row Barley: Typically used for malting and brewing; it has higher yields and better quality.
2. Six-Row Barley: Commonly used for animal feed; it produces more grain per plant but may have lower quality than two-row varieties.

Popular varieties suitable for Missouri include:

• Conlon: A high-yielding two-row variety known for its excellent malting quality.
• Steptoe: Another two-row variety that performs well in various environmental conditions.
• Morex: A six-row barley variety often used for animal feed that performs well under drought conditions.

Planting Schedule

Timing

In Missouri, spring barley should ideally be planted between mid-March and mid-April when soil temperatures reach around 50°F (10°C). If you choose to grow winter barley, sowing should occur in mid-September to allow adequate time for establishment before winter.

Planting Depth

Sow barley seeds at a depth of 1–2 inches. The recommended seeding rate is approximately 80–120 pounds per acre depending on the variety and seed quality.

Row Spacing

For optimal growth, space rows about 6–8 inches apart. This allows sufficient air circulation around plants while maximizing yield potential.

Irrigation and Water Management

Barley requires consistent moisture during its growing season, particularly during germination and heading stages. However, overwatering can lead to disease problems such as root rot or mold.

Irrigation Techniques

• Drip Irrigation: This method conserves water while providing steady moisture.
• Sprinkler Systems: Useful for larger fields but can lead to water evaporation if not carefully managed.

Monitor weather conditions closely; if rainfall is insufficient (especially during critical growth periods), supplemental irrigation may be necessary to sustain crop health.

Nutrient Management

Fertilization Schedule

Barley typically requires three nutrient applications during its growth cycle:

1. Pre-Plant Fertilizer: Apply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium based on soil test recommendations before planting.
2. At Planting: Use starter fertilizers high in phosphorus to promote early root development.
3. Topdressing: Apply additional nitrogen about four weeks after planting when plants begin to tiller.

Weed Control

Weeds can dramatically reduce yields by competing for nutrients and water. Implement an integrated weed management strategy:

• Mechanical Weeding: Cultivate the soil gently around young plants.
• Herbicides: Use pre-emergent herbicides before planting and post-emergent products once plants emerge as needed.

Pest and Disease Management

Barley is susceptible to various pests such as aphids, armyworms, and diseases like powdery mildew and barley yellow dwarf virus. Regular scouting and prompt action are essential:

1. Cultural Practices: Rotate crops annually to disrupt pest life cycles.
2. Resistant Varieties: Select disease-resistant varieties when possible.
3. Insecticides/Fungicides: Consider using targeted pesticides when pest populations exceed threshold levels or if disease symptoms appear.

Harvesting Barley

Timing the Harvest

Harvest time is crucial for ensuring grain quality. Barley is typically ready for harvest when it reaches approximately 13–14% moisture content—when kernels are hard but not brittle.

Harvest Techniques

Utilize a combine harvester equipped with appropriate settings for small grains:

1. Adjust the cutting height to avoid excessive straw loss.
2. Set fan speeds correctly; too high can blow away light grains; too low can cause clogging.
3. Monitor the grain tank regularly during harvesting.

Post-Harvest Handling

After harvesting, dry grains promptly using aeration systems or dryers if necessary to reduce moisture content further below 12% before storage.

Conclusion

Growing barley in Missouri presents an opportunity for farmers and gardeners alike to diversify their crops while contributing positively to soil health and agriculture sustainability. By understanding the specific requirements of this hardy grain—from soil preparation through harvesting—you can cultivate successful barley crops that provide valuable yields year after year.

With these guidelines at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to embark on your journey into barley cultivation—an endeavor that promises both economic benefits and culinary delights!