Variety and Systems Comparison Trial and Nitrogen Application Trial
Paul Porter, University of Minnesota - $30,000

Many canola growers prefer to see how varieties perform and compare in “field scale” plots rather than small plots. When possible, field scale plots take into account more field variability in the yield equation by including high ground and ditches. Small plots are typically located in an area of the field where the soil is uniform and well drained to reduce variability among treatments. The large plots allow each variety to be treated with its respective herbicide so that the varieties are treated like they would be in the grower’s field. Many growers not only pick varieties for their yield and disease resistance, but also on the ease of harvest. Comparing harvestability of varieties is not possible in small plots because the equipment is not comparable to what a grower uses.

Objective:
1. Establish agronomic and economical criteria (such as yield, economic return, crop quality, lodging resistance, harvestability, and disease resistance) for choosing among canola varieties and their respective herbicide options.