Cultural practices to improve malt barley quality in the northeast with focus on the craft sector

Demand is increasing for locally grown malt barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in northeastern North America, driven primarily by growth the craft beer sector. A multi-site experiment was conducted to evaluate how variety (V), seeding rate (S), and nitrogen (N) fertilizer affect quality northeast. Two varieties (Cerveza Newdale), two rates (200 400 seeds m ?2 ), five of actual applied N fertility (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 kg ha ?1 ) were tested at Charlottetown, PE, Canada, Ithaca, NY, US, Princeville, QC, New Liskeard Ottawa, ON, Canada. Basic agronomic data collected from all environments including yield, thousand kernel weight, hectoliter weight. Barley suitable micromalted subjected analysis. Both V S resulted small effects on quality, however, had greatest effect most measured variables. Increased application increased weight but a negative traits, especially with protein content, reduced fine extract, Kolbach index, friability, though it wort ?-glucans. This study shows that years sites, possible achieve northeast; excessive prevalence preharvest sprout damage are main barriers. The results this have implications production sector as well potential access commodity markets producers.