How many irrigations does wheat need and when?

Wheat usually needs 4 to 6 irrigations depending on soil and rainfall. The most critical stage is the crown root initiation (CRI) stage, about 20 to 25 days after sowing; never miss this one, as it has the biggest effect on yield. The other important stages are tillering (40 to 45 days), late jointing (60 to 65 days), flowering (80 to 85 days), milk stage (100 to 105 days) and dough stage (115 to 120 days). On light soils give lighter, more frequent irrigations. If water is limited, prioritise CRI and flowering stages. Avoid irrigating just before strong winds at the grain-filling stage, as a wet field with heavy ears lodges easily.