Interaction of genetics, environment, and management in determining soft red winter wheat yields

The complex interaction of genetics, environment, and management in determination of crop yields can interfere with selection progress in breeding programs. Specifically, the impact on selection for nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in soft red winter (SRW) wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) can be confounded by these interactions. We utilized a multi-environment trial in Lexington and Princeton, KY, from 2013 to 2015 to assess variation in traits associated with NUE based on interactions of genotype × environment × management (G×E×M). The NUE traits were measured on 10 genotypes under three management levels and four levels of N fertility. Genotype and genotype × environment interactions were significant for NUE traits (p < 0.001) but no genotype × N rate interactions were significant. Reduced N rates had no negative effect on grain yield for any genotype. Incremental application of N rates increased yield and postanthesis N uptake significantly. The utility of incorporating management treatments into breeding programs, specifically geared to low-input systems, could help drive progress for development of increased NUE in wheat cultivars.