Response of Oilseed Rape Hybrids and Open Pollinated Genotypes to Seeding Rate

The present study was carried out to determine the seeding rate for some hybrids and open-pollinated genotypes.  

A field experiment ina factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design was conducted at the Islamabad-Gharb Research Station during 2018-2019. Seed consumption was four levels of 2, 4, 6 and 8 kg.ha-1 and cultivars include hybrids (Natalie, Neptune and Marathon), open-pollinated (Nafis, Rohan, Nima) and R15 line.  

The results showed that the effect of seed consumption was significant on plant height, number of branches, pod per plant and seed yield. The Maximum plant height was obtained at the level of 8 kg of seed and it was significantly different from all other seed consumption. However, the highest number of shoots and pods per plant resulted in the lowest seed density. Seed yield had a different reaction to seed consumption. The highest seed yield was obtained at 6 kg per ha seed consumption (2919 kg.ha-1) However, there was no significant difference between the levels of 4, 6 and 8 kg.ha-1. Marathon produced the highest seed yield with an average of 3585 kg per ha. Oil content was also different between the cultivars and the highest percentage was obtained in Natalie, Neptune and Nima.  

In general, the best results were in seed consumption of 6 kg/ha and Marathon hybrid. The target density recommendations for hybrid seed are lower than open pollinated genotypes.