How to Grow Khorasan Wheat
Wikimedia Commons
Khorasan Wheat
Triticum turgidum subsp. turanicum
grassKhorasan wheat, also known as Kamut, is an ancient grain variety with large, golden kernels and a nutty, buttery flavor. It is a hulled wheat variety that has been cultivated for thousands of years, particularly in the Fertile Crescent. This grain is prized for its nutritional density and distinctive taste.
When should you plant Khorasan Wheat in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Khorasan Wheat timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Khorasan Wheat
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Khorasan Wheat
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Khorasan Wheat dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-7; can grow in zones 3-8 with proper management
Sign up free to see if Khorasan Wheat grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Khorasan Wheat timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds sprout within 7-10 days. Young shoots emerge with narrow, blade-like leaves.
Sow in fall (winter wheat) or early spring. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Protect from birds.
Tillering & Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops multiple shoots (tillers) from the base. Leaves are long and narrow with a waxy coating.
Ensure adequate nitrogen and phosphorus. Thin seedlings if overcrowded. Monitor for weeds and control early.
Boot & Flowering
2-3 weeksThe flowering head (spike) emerges from the leaf sheath. Florets open and pollinate.
Reduce nitrogen to prevent lodging. Adequate water is critical during this stage. Monitor for disease.
Grain Development & Maturation
3-4 weeksKernels fill with starch and nutrients. Grains transition from green to golden-brown. Plant yellows overall.
Reduce watering as plant matures. Avoid late nitrogen application. Watch for disease and pests.
Harvest Ready
1-2 weeksStalks turn brown and brittle. Kernels are hard and cannot be dented with a fingernail. Heads bend downward.
Check moisture content of kernels (below 15% ideal for storage). Harvest promptly to avoid shattering.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Adjust planting dates to avoid peak emergence periods; use resistant varieties; remove affected plants promptly.
-
Hand-pick on small plots; monitor with pheromone traps; use neem oil if infestation is severe.
-
Choose planting dates to avoid peak flight; maintain field sanitation; use resistant varieties if available.
-
Spray insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators; resistant varieties available.
Uses
Ancient Grain Flour & Pasta
CulinaryKhorasan wheat flour is used to make bread, pasta, and baked goods with a distinctive nutty, buttery flavor. Its larger kernel size and unique protein profile make it suitable for artisanal baking. [source]
Nutritional & Digestive Benefits
MedicinalKhorasan contains higher levels of protein, amino acids, and minerals compared to modern wheat varieties. Traditionally used to support digestive health and sustained energy. [source]
Whole Grain & Sprouting
HouseholdWhole berries are used for sprouting, adding to breakfast cereals, salads, and grain bowls. Sprouted Khorasan is particularly nutrient-rich. [source]
Straw & Decorative Use
CraftThe tall, sturdy straw is used for thatching, natural crafts, and bedding. Its length and strength make it ideal for decorative arrangements. [source]
Forage & Habitat
WildlifeGrowing Khorasan in crop rotation systems provides habitat for beneficial insects and ground-nesting birds. The seed heads feed wildlife in late summer. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when kernels are hard and cannot be dented with a fingernail, typically when stalks turn golden-brown. Cut near the base with a sharp sickle or scythe on small plots. For larger areas, use a combine harvester. Bundle and dry thoroughly (to ~12% moisture) before threshing. Store in cool, dry conditions to preserve quality.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Khorasan wheat is often marketed under the brand name 'Kamut,' which is a registered trademark. The name comes from an ancient Egyptian word meaning 'wheat.'
- 🌱 This wheat variety has significantly larger kernels than modern bread wheat, making it visually distinctive and easier to hand-harvest on small plots.
- 🌱 Khorasan wheat has been cultivated continuously for over 8,000 years and is one of the few ancient grain varieties still grown commercially today, with renewed interest from heritage and organic farmers.
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Khorasan Wheat planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Khorasan Wheat seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Khorasan Wheat timeline →