More hybrid rape seed sold
More hybrid rape seed sold
HYBRID rape varieties have secured over a fifth of certified seed sales this autumn, despite lingering concerns about their ability to deliver better gross margins than conventional varieties.
"Our target was 21% of certified seed sales and we think we are going to better that," says Mary Munley for breeder CPB Twyford.
New fully restored hybrid Pronto has rocketed in popularity, claiming 9% of the market already, like Synergy. Less risk of failed pollination is Prontos main attraction, she says.
But the first year of a NIAB trials series renews performance concerns. It is comparing composite hybrid variety Synergy sown at the reduced 3kg/ha seed rate advocated by CPB Twyford with conventional varieties sown at a conventional 6kg/ha.
The trial, repeated at all recommended list sites, shows Apex yielding 101% of controls and low rate Synergy 103%. That represents a yield difference of just 90kg/ha (0.7cwt/acre), too little to offset the £33/ha extra growing costs, says Zenecas Paul Hickman.
Allowing for more costly seed, plus an additional pollen beetle spray and sulphur to ensure good pollination, sees Apexs gross margin £20.40/ha better than low rate Synergy, says Zeneca.
But any crop with high yield potential would get an extra pollen beetle spray and sulphur, argues Miss Munley. The only real cost difference is seed, which amounts to £18/ha, and is covered by just 138kg/ha of extra crop output valued at £130/t.
Although the NIAB trial did not give that yield benefit, farm experience and independent trials show it can be met, she says. A survey of 11,000ha of farm crops shows an average yield response of 320kg/ha over other varieties this year.
She also questions the validity of the NIAB trial, saying plots are too small, and points out that they did not receive the extra inputs included in Zenecas costs.
HYBRID RAPES
• 21% certified seed goal.
• Pronto and Synergy 9% each already, Artus 1.5%.
• 30%+ market share in Scotland after good harvest results.
• NIAB trial shows small yield benefit at low seed rate.
• Cost benefit in question.