62 Story Idea? Email Paul.Nolan@Farms.com Better Farming | January 2025 Seager Wheeler, known as the “Wheat King of the Prairies,” revolutionized farming in Western Canada. Through innovative wheat breeding and sustainable farming practices, Wheeler helped shape the Prairies into one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions. Early life and Prairie beginnings Born in 1868 on the Isle of Wight, England, Wheeler grew up on a small farm. At 17, he emigrated to Canada, arriving in Saskatchewan in 1885. He worked on farms near Moose Jaw and Saskatoon before establishing his homestead near Rosthern in 1890. Recognizing the limitations of traditional European farming methods, Wheeler adapted his practices to the Prairies’ challenging conditions. Wheat breeding success Wheeler’s most significant contribution was developing wheat varieties suited to the Prairies’ short growing seasons and extreme weather. His groundbreaking Marquis 10B wheat matured faster than other varieties, reducing frost risk and improving yields. It was also resistant to drought and had strong straw, making it less likely to lodge during storms. Between 1911 and 1918, Wheeler’s wheat won five world championships at international competitions. Marquis wheat became a staple across Canada and was integral to the country’s rise as a leading wheat exporter. New techniques and diversification Wheeler championed sustainable farming practices, such as crop rotation and summer fallow, to preserve soil health. He promoted shallow plowing and proper seedbed preparation to improve germination and moisture retention. Beyond grain farming, Wheeler experimented with fruit cultivation. He developed hardy apple varieties, including the Saskatchewan Crab Apple, and cherry-plum hybrids, demonstrating that fruit production was possible in the Prairie climate. Sharing knowledge In 1919, Wheeler published Seager Wheeler’s Book on Profitable Grain Growing. The book offered practical advice on soil management, crop selection, and sustainable farming. It became an essential resource for prairie farmers looking to improve productivity. Visiting Wheeler’s farm today Wheeler’s legacy lives on at Seager Wheeler’s Maple Grove Farm, located six km east of Rosthern. Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1994, the farm offers visitors an opportunity to explore Wheeler’s pioneering work. During the summer, the farm typically opens from early July to early September, operating Monday through Friday. Visitors can tour restored buildings, view Wheeler’s orchard with over 30 apple varieties, and explore the gardens. Admission fees range from $4.50 for youth to $7.50 for adults, with children under five admitted free. The farm also hosts events like live music festivals and dessert nights featuring homemade treats. Group bookings for events like weddings and corporate retreats are available, accommodating up to 300 people. For the latest information, visitors can contact the farm at 306-232-5959 or email seagerwheelerfarm@gmail.com. Legacy Wheeler’s contributions earned widespread recognition, including an honorary Doctor of Law degree from Queen’s University in 1919. He passed away in 1961 in Victoria, British Columbia, but his innovations continue to influence modern farming. Wheeler’s work revolutionized wheat breeding and demonstrated the importance of adapting farming practices to local conditions. His dedication to innovation and education ensured that Prairie agriculture thrived, and his legacy remains a cornerstone of Canada’s farming heritage. BF RURAL ROOTS Wheeler's wheat won five world championships. Seager Wheeler Farm photo THE WHEAT KING OF THE PRAIRIES Seager Wheeler’s innovations shaped farming & built a legacy in Western Canada. By Mary Loggan
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