How to increase oilseed rape oil content
The oil content in an oilseed rape crop depends on seeds per pod, pods per plant and plant per area. To obtain a good quality crop with the desired oil content, the photosynthetic activity must be maximized.
Nitrogen influences both yield and oil content
Nitrogen has a crucial function, it is present in chlorophyll, chromosomes and enzymes. It is a component of countless compounds which explains its central role in growth and development. Any early nitrogen deficiency inhibits growth and reduces yield through low leaf indices and shortened vegetation duration.
Nitrogen deficiency will reduce not only the final yield but also the plant’s protein content. Conversely, excessive nitrogen leads to reduced quality: low oil content and increased glucosinolate content, especially if sulphur is not limiting.
Photosynthetic activity is the source of plant growth due to the assimilation of CO2 and the capture of solar energy. Compared to control treatment with no additional nitrogen, the photosynthesis of a fertilised plot is partly higher and lasts longer, hence more time to produce a good yield.
Related articles
How to increase oilseed rape yield
The key components of yield in oilseed rape are number of plants per unit area, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and the individual seed weight. High yields come from good crop management including a balanced plant nutrition programme.
How to influence glucosinolate levels in oilseed rape
Glucosinolates are secondary plant metabolites that occur naturally in all brassica species. They are important for defence against insect pests and diseases but if present at too high a concentration they can cause health issues in humans and livestock.
How to influence oilseed rape quality
Achieving quality targets for oilseed rape can greatly affect the value of the harvested crop. The main quality targets are glucosinolate levels and percent oil content. Crop nutrition greatly influences both of these traits.
How to improve oilseed rape establishment
Autumn nutrition is important to get the oilseed crop off to the best possible start. Getting OSR established and away rapidly is the best way to try to counteract the various pests that are rife at that time of year.
Identify and diagnose oilseed nutrient deficiencies
Identify and diagnose if your oilseed rape is suffering from nutrient deficiencies and learn more about the symptoms and causes and how to control or correct the deficiency
Recommended Yara fertilisers for oilseed
More oilseed agronomy advice
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