Wheat originated in southwest Asia in what is now known as a the Fertile Crescent. While wheat was grown in the United States during the early colonial years, it was not until the late 19th century that wheat cultivation flourished, owing to the importation of an especially hardy strain of wheat known as Turkey red wheat. Russian immigrants who settled in Kansas brought Turkey red wheat with them.
Unlike most other crops, hard red winter wheat is planted in the fall and harvested in the spring.
Wheat is the major ingredient in most breads, rolls, crackers, cookies, biscuits, cakes, doughnuts, muffins, pancakes, waffles, noodles, pie crusts, ice cream cones, macaroni, spaghetti, puddings, pizza, and many prepared hot and cold breakfast foods.
One family of four can live 10 years off the bread produced by one acre of wheat.
Lessons & Activities
- Wheat Bread Facts
- Little Red Hen
- Wheat from Field to Oven
- Bread in a Bag
- How Many Jobs in a Loaf of Bread?
- Check out our "Wheat We Eat" Kit-available for loan