Influence of sowing dates and seeding portions on winter oilseed rape winter resistance and yield
Abstract
The introduction of based on sciences agricultural techniques for winter rapeseed can compensate the influence of the adverse Ukrainian Steppe zone conditions. Purpose.The study aimed to determine the effects of sowing dates and seeding portions of the winter oilseed rape hybrid Temtation on plant growth and development, winter resistance and seed productivity under the Northern Ukrainian Steppe zone agroclimatic conditions. The research was focused on optimizing agronomic practices to increase yield and economic efficiency.Methods. The experiments have been conducted in 2022–2025 using a two-factorial field trials with randomized plot placement at three replications. The factors included sowing dates (20 August, 30 August, 10 September, 20 September) and seeding portions (0.5, 0.7, and 1.0 million seeds per hectare). Phenological and morphobiological parameters of the plants were assessed, including winter resistance, rosette mass and structure, root collar diameter, height of the growing point, leaf length, seed yield and quality. Data were statistically analyzed.Results. The optimal soil temperature for seed germination (14–17 °C) occurred with sowing on 10–20 September,whereas early sowing (20–30 August) was associated with soil overheating, moisture deficit and delayed emergence.The highest winter resistance (rosette survival of 84–87%) was achieved with sowing on 10–20 of September. Root collar diameter and plant mass corresponded to optimal parameters for overwintering, while excessive mass and leaf length in early sowing indicated overgrowth. Maximum seed yield (3.04 t/he) and oil content (45.6%) were observed at 0.7 million seeds/he seeding portion and sowing on 10 September, which ensured efficient use of the nutrient area, optimal soil coverage by leaf mass and uniform development of reproductive organs. Increasing density above 0.7 million seeds/he or sowing too early reduced both productivity and economic efficiency. Conclusions.Optimal morphobiological parameters and high productivity are achieved with sowing on 10–20 September with 0.7 million plants/he seeding portion. The study highlights the importance of agroclimatic conditions and plant density to enhance yield and economic efficiency of winter oilseed rape cultivation in the Northern Steppe of Ukraine.
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