The distinction between winter and spring barley is based on vernalization requirements and winter hardiness levels, which determine their cultivation geography and biological characteristics.
In the reference
187
varieties
crop Barley,
where this is mentioned in the description.
Winter barley requires vernalization at low temperatures for 35–45 days to initiate heading, whereas spring barley does not require this process. Winter forms possess the lowest winter hardiness among the first group of cereals, withstanding critical temperatures in the tillering node of approximately -12…-14°C, while spring barley exhibits high cold tolerance during seed germination, starting vegetation at 4–5°C.
Winter barley is characterized by high drought and heat resistance, effectively utilizing winter-spring moisture reserves due to its early maturity. The growing season for the spring form ranges from 55 to 110 days, while for the winter form it is 262 to 300 days. Early maturity of winter barley allows agronomists to use it for forming a "green conveyor" and for advance soil preparation for stubble crops.
Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.