Mississippi State University annually conducts Variety Trials of public and private wheat and oat varieties: MAFES Wheat and Oat Variety Trials. These variety trials were grown at seven locations in cropping regions representing all geographic areas of the state. These trials may be grown on Experiment Stations or grower cooperator’s farms. Variety entry is open for all public or private parties and dependent upon voluntary entry by the respective seed company or owner for performance evaluation.

This variety testing program depends upon voluntary participation, so if you appreciate this information, or would like to see additional varieties tested, please contact your seed company representative, and encourage their participation. Mississippi State University is committed to serving Mississippi growers, so if you have any suggestions, always feel free to contact myself as well.

This publication lists those wheat varieties which have demonstrated superior productivity in the MSU Wheat and Oat Variety Trials and summarizes their characteristics. Adaptability and performance of wheat varieties usually varies considerably depending upon climatic differences inherent in different geographical regions of Mississippi and the Midsouth, particularly as latitude ranges from north to south. Thus, variety performance is analyzed and presented independently for the Delta region, north Mississippi and south Mississippi. This independent information should help you better assess wheat varieties and pick those which are suited for your farm.

Selecting a well-adapted wheat variety may be more important than any other crop grown in Mississippi, because the genetic diversity among wheat varieties varies substantially and can dramatically affect performance in different regions of the state. If you would like further assistance, feel free to contact myself at any time.

2021 MSU Short List of Suggested Wheat Varieties