Montana Statewide Spring Canola Variety Trial

Objective

To evaluate the agronomic performance of available canola hybrids and breeding lines submitted by commercial entities at testing locations across the state. The information obtained from these trials is intended to provide canola growers in Montana with unbiased information regarding which canola hybrids are best suited to their specific growing conditions 

Methods

The trials were established using a randomized complete block design with four replications. Plots were managed according to best practices at the location (see Table 1. ‘Management Information’). Agronomic data were collected throughout the growing season.

Summary

Performance of 16 spring canola entries was evaluated at the Northwestern Agricultural Research Center.

CS3300TF was the top performer in yield at 3,648 lbs/ac followed closely by LR354PC (3,562 lbs/A) and DK401TL (3,496 lbs/A), all of which were above the average (Table 2) but statistical differences were not detected. 

CS26000 CR-T had the highest oil content at 51% and the rest had oil content lower than 51% (Table 2). Test weight ranged from 49.2 lbs/bu (L340PC) to 50.8 lbs/bu (RUBCL0225) with an average of 49.7 lb/bu. The resulting plant count per square foot was similar across entries (and are not significantly different from each other) with an average plant count of 16.2/ ft² following the target uniform seed density of the nursery. Plant height ranged from 52.2 in. (CP9221TF) to 57 in. (DL231945TF). The CS2600CR-T had the highest lodging score at 42%. However, the overall lodging of the nursery was minimal – with an average of 5.5% (Table 2).  Though CS3000TF and CS2600CR-T had the highest average percentage of shattering at 9%, all entries are not significantly different in terms of pod shattering.