In wheat production, what does the phrase "dusting it in" refer to?

The phrase "dusting it in" in wheat production refers to the practice of planting the seed shallowly into dry soil with the hope that rainfall will come to facilitate germination. This method is often used when soil conditions are not ideal for deeper planting or when moisture is limited. Shallow planting can increase the chances of seed exposure to any moisture that may be available near the surface, which is essential for initiating the germination process. Understanding this technique is crucial because it highlights how farmers adapt planting strategies based on current weather conditions and soil moisture levels.