Analysis of the cultivation of canola hybrids at different sowing dates

Abstract

Rich in oil and protein, canola is a significantly promising crop and is widely explored as an alternative to grain cultivation in the winter period. Recently, canola oil has been largely consumed due to a variety of health benefits and low production costs. Nonetheless, impasses such as determining the correct sowing date and optimizing harvesting methods make it difficult to expand cultivation. Accordingly, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the performance of two canola hybrids on three sowing dates and distinct harvesting procedures. The study was conducted in Cachoeira do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, on three sowing dates (2019, 2020, and 2021), with two hybrids (Hyola 433 and Hyola 575 CL). The methods of direct harvesting, direct harvesting with the application of adjuvant, cut-row, and cut-row with the application of adjuvant were evaluated. The main yield components were determined, in addition to biochemical parameters, such as oil and protein content and determination of oil quality (acid, peroxide, iodine, extinction, and saponification indices). Appropriately, this study indicated that canola is significantly sensitive to climatic conditions, mainly to temperature and sowing time, reducing grain and biomass yield in late sowing and resulting in serious harvest losses. Oil and grain protein contents were affected by climatic conditions. Nevertheless, the protein content was not affected by late sowing. Canola oil presented significant chemical conditions, with a correlation between the crops with higher oil yield and better oil quality.