2001 Canola Variety and Hybrid Performance Evaluations

Abstract

This report evaluates the relative yield performance of spring canola varieties adapted to the northern plains and intermountain regions. Emergence was slow and very erratic due to dry weather conditions that persisted till early June at both locations. The Moore site was very slow to emerge with much of the emergence occurring in early June. Tyler seeded with a hoe drill and more uniform and much earlier emergence. The delayed emergence contributed to low yield levels at both locations. Extremely high levels of evaporative demand in July were also detrimental to the canola trial yields (See Tables sc35 and sc36). The Moccasin trials were further impacted by ground sparrows and Cashin finch feeding on the seed pods prior and during ripening. Intermountain 223 RR and 357 RR lines were top performers in both trials. These lines have been good performers other years as well. Late seeding and unusually dry weather with high evaporative demand resulted below average canola yields. The variation within the study due to factors other than the characteristics of the varieties themselves reduced the value of both variety evaluation nurseries.