Cereals are crops of the Poaceae or Gramineae family, cultivated over large areas for their high carbohydrate content and agro-industrial use. Common examples are wheat, barley, and corn. Their adaptability to diverse soils and climates has facilitated their cultivation in both developed and developing countries, playing a key role in rural life.
They are annual crops and are classified as winter and summer cereals. To achieve good production, it is essential to understand their specific needs, the timing and method of sowing, and the soil conditions, which must be well prepared physically and chemically.
Sowing depth and spacing between seeds must be adjusted according to seed size, soil moisture, and climate, to ensure healthy root competition and good light penetration.
The soil must provide nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilization must be adapted to the soil condition and crop needs, especially during key stages such as tillering and stem formation. It is essential to perform a soil analysis to determine the optimal nutrient dosage, avoiding excesses or deficiencies and following the "law of the minimum." Fertilizers containing nitrate nitrogen are recommended, avoiding forms that require transformation in the soil for plant absorption.
