Optimal Agronomic Conditions for Spring and Winter Canola Production in Northern Idaho.

Optimal agronomic conditions for spring and winter canola production in northern Idaho

Katie Reed*

University of Idaho

Canola acreage in Idaho continues to rise, and has doubled over the past two seasons. Many growers are attracted to canola as higher yielding cultivars are now available, and crop prices are competitive with others in the region.  The University of Idaho has been conducting regional variety trials throughout the Pacific Northwest for over 20 years which has helped identify the regions and cultivars with most adaption and highest yield.  However, there has been no attempt to optimize productivity of specific adapted cultivars in any of the Idaho regions. This study will determine optimized seeding rates, planting dates and fertility management of the most adapted spring and winter canola cultivars.  Information will provide growers with specific agronomic condition to ensure sustained productivity and profitability of these cultivars in specific environments that exist in northern Idaho and throughout the Pacific Northwest.  Field results will be integrated with a large two year grower survey to offer Idaho growers with production guidelines for integrating canola into cereal based rotations.

K. Reed, reed2987@vandals.uidaho.edu,  (208) 885-6272