Targeting maximum yields of flood irrigated canola in southern NSW

Abstract

Key findings •• Pioneer® 45Y88 (CL) was the highest yielding variety, averaging over 4 t/ha, with Nuseed Diamond and Pioneer® 45Y25 (RR) also achieving high yields. •• Sowing on 5 April resulted in higher grain yield, reduced lodging and lower oil content compared with sowing on 26 April. •• A plant population of 35–56 plants/m2 resulted in higher grain yields than populations of 18 plants/m2 or 68 plants/m2. •• Applying 200 kg N/ha resulted in higher grain yields than 150 kg N/ha when the soil available nitrogen (N) at sowing was 64 kg/ha. Nitrogen rates above 200 kg N/ha resulted in no extra yield. •• Increasing N application rates above 200 kg N/ha reduced oil concentration. •• Crop lodging increased with plant populations above 35 plants/m2 and N rates above 150 kg N/ha.