North Dakota Research Center Demonstrates Kernza Performance

North Dakota State University’s Williston Research Extension Center (WREC) has been growing the perennial grain kernza for several years, reports Farm & Ranch Guide, and researchers recently shared reflections on their experience with farmers and ranchers at a field day. Agronomists discussed both the strengths of the crop, such as its ability to out-compete weeds and perform as both a forage and a grain crop, and areas where breeders are working for further improvements. Breeders are focusing on increasing seed size and reducing height so the grain is easier to combine. They are also developing different varieties for arid and less-arid regions and increasing the crop’s ability to endure past a three- to four-year horizon.