Marianne's Response

How much Osmocote is needed with a one-gallon pot of wheat?

We currently grow large numbers of wheat in one gallon pots using Sunshine brand potting mix with staggered plantings in a greenhouse. We have been using Fertigation 20-20-20 but the equipment has been unreliable of late. For future plantings (hundreds per planting of young, hardened plants) we plan to use Osmocote Plus. Wheat takes a lot of nutrients to grow fast and make seeds. Can you help us to get an idea of how much Osmocote should be applied for a 4 month growing season? Please keep in mind they are watered at least 3 times a week. We want to go with what is safe and healthy and are planning to follow your application rate.
Thank you for your expertise.
R Lawrence
University of Idaho
Wheat Breeding
Cell 208 596 9738
Office 208 885 9110

Posted by randy lawrence on June 5, 2015

Marianne's Response

Hi, rlawrence! I have not personally used Osmocote to grow wheat in pots so I suggest starting cautiously. The Osmocote Plus formula is probably best for this purpose (15-9-12). It's longevity is six months, however, which is more than the 4-month criteria noted in your Q. Mix 12 grams of Osmocote granules with one gallon of growing media. That's about 1/2 an ounce (14 grams = 1 ounce). If you wish to step-it-up after conducting a trial, it will likely be safe to go as high 18 grams/gallon. Best wishes, Bob Stohler. The message below was initially sent by Marianne Binetti I will need to refer your very specific question to the research team at Osmocote. I am here to help with any other questions of a home gardening nature. Your project does sound interesting. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti

    Search the Ask the Gardening Expert library

    Looking for a quick resolution to your problem? Marianne has answered thousands of gardening questions. One may be similar to yours. Try searching our library to get the answer you need — fast!

    My Topics

    View questions you submitted to Marianne in the past

    VIEW MY QUESTIONS