Zhukovsky Wheat Seeds

Zhukovsky’s wheat (Triticum zhukovskyi) is an ancient hexaploid wheat species. It’s related to Triticum timopheevii, a tetraploid wheat, and thought to have originated as an amphiploid that arose from a cross between T. timopheevii and Triticum monococcum​.

It has heads that are about 5 cm long and bearded, somewhat longer than those of T. timopheevii.

This Russian Heritage variety is an ancient grain that originated in the Republic of Georgia. This grain is not widely known in culinary uses compared to more common wheat varieties but has unique characteristics that make it interesting for both cultivation and potential food applications.

Zhukovsky wheat is used in a similar way to other ancient wheats like einkorn or emmer. It can be ground into flour and used for baking bread, making pasta, or in porridges. The nutritional profile makes it a candidate for healthier, whole grain applications.

It is known for being a hardy plant with a relatively longer head compared to other wheat species, such as Timopheevi wheat. The grain is considered a tetraploid wheat, similar to durum wheat, and is valued for its resilience and potential health benefits like other ancient grains. Zhukovsky wheat also has a thicker husk and may be more nutrient-dense than more modern, heavily-bred wheat varieties.

When planting Zhukovsky Wheat, it is important to choose a location with good drainage and ample sunlight. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1-2 inches, and the soil should be prepared by loosening it to at least 6 inches deep and incorporating organic matter to improve fertility. Regular watering is crucial, especially during germination and flowering stages. For optimal growth, the wheat needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. ( I was not able provide this much water during the heatwaves and drought in 2024 British Columbia. The variety did well despite the lack of water).

This wheat is ornamental and can also be grown as fodder for animals. It is a resilient crop in various climates due to its adaptability and drought tolerance​.

Very rare in Canada and is not widely available commercially.

Zhukovsky wheat is typically planted as a spring wheat. This is because it shares many characteristics with other spring-planted ancient wheats, such as needing a shorter growing season compared to winter wheat varieties. Spring wheat is usually sown in early spring when the soil is workable, allowing it to mature over the warmer months​.

These tubers are available directly from Garden Faerie Botanicals in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. The collection features heirloom and heritage seeds that are personally cultivated organically without the use of any chemicals. Emphasizing historical, rare, non-GMO seeds, this selection preserves biodiversity through open-pollination.