Multi-trait evaluation of oilseed rape varieties

The multifaceted nature of agricultural management and environmental factors complicates the production of winter oilseed rape (<i>Brassica napus</i> L.). This study evaluated 25 varieties (21 hybrids and four populations) in three growing seasons (2020/21, 2021/22 and 2022/23) in Poland. The focus was on yield, fat content, and resistance to <i>Sclerotinia sclerotiorum</i>. The analyses revealed significant variability among the varieties, with the hybrids performing better consistently in terms of yield and fat content. The level of resistance to <i>Sclerotinia</i> was similar in hybrid and population varieties. Furthermore, DK Excited was found to be the highest-yielding variety, while Duke had the highest fat content. Derrick was the most resistant to <i>S. sclerotiorum</i>. Advocat and Dynamic were identified as the best varieties. In the analysed series of field trials, yield was found to be affected by high temperatures anda lack of rainfall in March, June, and July. For fat content, a lack of rainfall in July was the main limiting factor.