Wheat Farming: Why Does Wheat Turn Yellow After the First Irrigation? Know the Real Reasons and Essential Remedies for Farmers

Why Wheat Turns Yellow After Irrigation

Krishi Dunia

• 22 Dec, 2025 12:06 PM IST ,
• Updated Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:09 PM

Farmer brothers, if your wheat crop starts turning yellow instead of lush green after the first irrigation, you are not alone. Due to cold weather, fog, and excess moisture, many farmers across the country are currently facing this issue. While standing crops should bring happiness, yellowing leaves often become a cause of concern.

The good news is that with timely irrigation management, balanced nutrition, and proper crop care, this problem can be easily controlled. Let us understand why wheat turns yellow after the first irrigation and what steps farmers should take to prevent it.

Why Does Wheat Turn Yellow After the First Irrigation?

According to agricultural experts, cold temperatures, fog, and high moisture levels increase the risk of nutrient deficiency and diseases in wheat during this stage. Many farmers provide the first irrigation on time but fail to apply balanced fertilizers afterward. As a result, plants do not receive adequate nutrition, leading to yellowing of leaves.

Nutrient Deficiency: The Major Cause

During the early growth stage, wheat requires essential nutrients such as Nitrogen, Zinc, Sulphur, and Iron.

• Nitrogen deficiency causes pale yellow leaves and stunted growth.
• Zinc and iron deficiency leads to yellowing of young leaves.
• Sulphur deficiency weakens plants and reduces tiller formation.

If these nutrients are not replenished after the first irrigation, the crop may become weak and unproductive.

Diseases That Increase Yellowing in Wheat

Cold and foggy weather creates favorable conditions for various wheat diseases, such as:

• Yellow Rust
• Leaf Blight
• Root Rot
• Smut Disease

These diseases restrict nutrient absorption and slow plant growth, causing leaves to turn yellow.

Waterlogging Also Causes Damage

If water remains standing in the field for a long time after irrigation, wheat roots do not get enough oxygen. This weakens the root system and prevents proper nutrient uptake, resulting in yellow leaves. Therefore, proper drainage is extremely important.

Effective Remedies to Prevent Yellowing in Wheat

Farmers should adopt the following measures:

• Ensure the first irrigation is done 20–25 days after sowing.
• Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers (such as urea) in balanced quantities after irrigation.
• Spray micronutrients if zinc or iron deficiency is observed.
• Avoid waterlogging and maintain proper field drainage.
• At the first sign of disease, spray recommended medicines after consulting an agriculture expert.
• Regularly monitor the crop condition.

Timely Care Ensures Better Yield

If farmers take proper care of wheat after the first irrigation, provide balanced nutrition, and control diseases in time, yellowing of leaves can be easily prevented. This will keep the crop healthy, increase the number of tillers, and ultimately lead to higher wheat yield and better quality produce.

Note: Always consult the nearest agriculture department or agricultural expert before using fertilizers, nutrients, or pesticides.