How to Grow Spelt
Wikimedia Commons
Spelt
Triticum dicoccum
grassSpelt is an ancient hulled wheat variety with a nutty flavor and higher nutritional content than modern bread wheat. It has a distinctive appearance with long awns (bristles) and produces grain enclosed in a tough husk. Spelt is gaining popularity among heritage grain growers and health-conscious consumers.
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Example Spelt timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Spelt
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Spelt
Around Sep 4≈ 140 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Spelt dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; prefers cooler climates with moderate rainfall
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds germinate in 7-10 days, producing initial shoots and root system. Young plants develop 2-4 leaves.
Ensure consistent soil moisture; protect from birds and rodents. Keep area weed-free.
Tillering & Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant produces multiple shoots (tillers) from the base. Foliage darkens and becomes denser; roots deepen significantly.
Allow adequate spacing to prevent disease. Monitor for pests and weeds. Light nitrogen fertilizer can boost tiller development.
Stem Elongation & Jointing
4-6 weeksVisible stem nodes form; plant height increases rapidly. Characteristic awns begin to develop.
Reduce watering slightly if rainfall is adequate. Watch for lodging (falling over) in windy areas. Support with stakes if needed.
Flowering & Grain Development
3-4 weeksSpikes emerge with distinctive long awns. Florets open and self-pollinate. Grains begin to fill with starch.
Maintain consistent watering during grain-fill. Avoid excessive nitrogen which promotes lodging. Pest pressure may increase; scout regularly.
Ripening & Maturity
2-3 weeksGrains harden and turn golden-brown. Stems dry down and awns become brittle. Plant is ready to harvest when kernel cannot be easily crushed.
Stop irrigation 1-2 weeks before harvest. Allow full drying in the field if weather permits. Monitor for grain sprouting if wet.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Plant after Hessian fly-free date; use resistant varieties; crop rotation; destroy infested residue
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Scout regularly; use insecticidal soap for severe infestations; encourage natural predators
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Timed planting to avoid peak emergence; resistant varieties; crop rotation for 2+ years
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Remove infected debris; improve air circulation; fungicide applications if severe; use resistant varieties
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Improve air circulation; avoid excess nitrogen; sulfur dust; resistant varieties available
Uses
Ancient Grain Flour
CulinarySpelt flour produces distinctive nutty-flavored bread, pasta, and baked goods with a slightly denser crumb than modern wheat. It is prized by artisan bakers and health-conscious consumers seeking heritage grains. [source]
Whole Grain Cereal & Salads
CulinaryWhole spelt berries can be cooked as a nutritious porridge or added to grain salads and soups for a chewy texture and nutty flavor. [source]
Nutritional & Digestive Health
MedicinalSpelt contains higher levels of protein, B vitamins, magnesium, and phosphorus compared to modern wheat. Its lignan content may support digestive health and provide antioxidant benefits. [source]
Animal Feed & Livestock
HouseholdWhole spelt grains and straw are excellent nutritious feed for poultry, cattle, and horses. The straw also serves as bedding and mulch. [source]
Decorative Dried Arrangements
CraftDried spelt stalks with distinctive long awns are popular in floral arrangements, wreaths, and rustic home decor. [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 the kernel is hard and cannot be indented with a fingernail; typically when stalks turn golden-brown. Cut or scythe stems about 2 inches above ground. Dry fully in the sun or an aerated space before threshing to remove hulls. For home-scale harvest, lay dried stems in a cloth and beat with a flail to separate grains.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Spelt has been cultivated for over 8,000 years and was the primary grain of ancient Egypt, Rome, and medieval Europe before modern wheat breeding largely replaced it.
- 🌱 Unlike modern wheat, spelt's tough husk makes it naturally resistant to pests and diseases, requiring less pesticide use and making it attractive to organic farmers.
- 🌱 Spelt contains gluten and is NOT suitable for celiac disease sufferers, despite myths claiming it is easier to digest; however, some people with mild wheat sensitivity report better tolerance.
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