Low Biomass Types Offer Best High Fertility Site Returns

According to the company’s general manager, Thierry Momont, in highly productive regions and soils in the UK, and also on the near continent, it is clear that hybrids can produce excessive growth – often reaching a height of 2m.

This is where a variety that produces a short canopy has an advantage, directing effort into pod set and pod-fill rather than excessive leafy growth. 

Equally though, he points out that lower biomass varieties are unlikely to perform as well in stressed situations.  Here, hybrids have a potential advantage.  “It’s a case of the right horse for the right course,” he says.

In essence on fertile soils, Castille had many of the attributes needed for best rape gross margins, but it is now outclassed and we need a replacement says Mr Momont.  In his view, RL candidate Eiffel – available for this first time this season, through United Oilseeds - could just be the variety to fit this bill.

“With a yield that is 5% higher than Castille and an oil that is 1.8% ahead of Castille, Eiffel can help minimise input costs on farm and safely deliver the best gross outputs on fertile land.

“With such a short canopy a fully comprehensive growth regulation programme or desiccation may not be required,” says Mr Momont.  “It’s a step ahead of Castille for resistance to lodging and stem stiffness.

“In addition, you can safely drill Eiffel early, to maximise growth potential without fear of excessive early development on high potential sites.”

Mr Momont points out that growers in the industrial NW of France – on heavy soils that have been traditionally used for root crops – have turned to varieties such as Eiffel to meet a growing bio-diesel demand.  “They have found these types provide the highest returns and are easier to manage.

“Lower biomass varieties also suit mainstream conditions in the main arable regions of the UK, where the potential for strong growth and top yields are highest.”