Seeding Rates for Malt Barley

When it comes to malt barley, starting with the right plant stand is one of the best ways to set yourself up for success. Target seeding rates for malt barley to reach 22–25 plants per square foot to ensure a dense, uniform stand that supports plump kernels and consistent maturity — two key traits for meeting malt specs.

On average, 20–22 plants per square foot is a good target under normal Prairie conditions. But environment matters:

• In drier regions, a slightly lower seeding rate can reduce competition for moisture.
• In higher moisture zones, bumping up your rate can help with uniformity and weed suppression.

20-22 plants per sqft

Use this formula to calculate your seeding rate in pounds per acre:

Seeding Rate = [(Target plants/sq ft × 1000 kernel weight in grams) / Estimated survival] ÷ 10.4

For example, target seeding rates for malt barley at 300 live seeds per square metre typically result in about 220 established plants per square metre. This is right in the sweet spot for most malt barley scenarios.

A challenge can be understanding the range of 1000 kernel weights. In fact, this number differs by location, variety and growing conditions year after year. Mitchell Japp, Research & Extension Manager for SaskBarley, works through some example calculations in this short video: Understanding Barley Seeding Rates

Once your seed is in the ground, knowing your actual emergence percentage can take next years seeding rate calculations to the next level. It tells you how many viable seeds actually become plants — a critical piece of the puzzle when aiming for target plant stands. Alberta Grains has a great step-by-step guide on calculating emergence percentage, including when and how to do plant counts. Check it out to make more accurate, field-specific seeding decisions: Read the article on emergence percentage from Alberta Grains

Undoubtedly, some farmers find success outside the standard range, but starting with these guidelines puts you on firm footing. Because when you’re growing for malt, the details matter — and it all begins with the seed.

Haven’t picked a malt variety yet?

Check out the latest recommended malting barley variety list from the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre.

Need more resources for seeding malt barley?

• Mortal Danger: Understanding Seedling Mortality
• Seeding Rates for Malt Barley
• Growing Malting Barley? Set Yourself Up for Success

Plant counts to confidence: Turning plant stands into smart decisions – Alberta Grains

Growing feed barley?

Watch this video for more details on feed barley seeding rates and example calculations: Understanding Barley Seeding Rates