User:Talskiddy/Maris Wigeon

Maris Widgeon, is an old variety of wheat that has traditionally been used for thatching in the UK.

Uses
It produces a tall, strong stemmed straw without the use of artificial fertilisers, which makes popular with thatchers and straw craftsmen. It is also popular with artisan bread bakers and specialist organic millers.

Problems in production
There are no wheat varieties, suitable for thatching, on the current NIAB seed list. Until recently (2008/9) the only commercial seed distributor for Maris Widgeon, was Pickards Seeds, of Burrington, Devon). Maris Widgeon is one of the few varities on the National List of Permitted Varieties - (EU legislation policed by DEFRA). Other traditional varieties have become unlisted which means that they cannot be bought, sold or even given away. For this reason new straw growers have no option but to grow Maris Widgeon from kept seed.

Morphology

 * Wheat: the big picture Illustrated guide to life cycle of wheat plant

Category:Wheat