Agronomic performance of wheat cultivars under different plant density and planting times

Wheat plays a critical role in global food security and the agricultural economy. In Minas Gerais, Brazil, one of the major challenges for wheat production is the high variability of meteorological conditions. Therefore, studies that support wheat producers in defining more accurate sowing dates and plant densities according to cultivar requirements are essential, as they can contribute to increasing yield and enhancing agricultural resilience. The aim of this study was to evaluate the response of wheat cultivars, based on growth, micrometeorological, and yield-related traits, under different sowing times and plant densities. The experiment was conducted during the autumn–winter growing season of 2022 in an experimental area located in Ijaci, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Four wheat cultivars were evaluated under different sowing times and plant densities. Agronomic and agrometeorological variables were monitored throughout the field experiment. The results showed that wheat sown within the recommended sowing window exhibited superior performance, benefiting from greater soil water availability, higher growth rates, and increased radiation interception. Grain yield was, on average, 37.9% higher under normal sowing conditions compared with late sowing, confirming the strong influence of sowing time on crop performance. No significant differences were observed among cultivars or plant densities. These findings provide relevant guidance for producers and reinforce sowing time as a key factor for efficient wheat management.