Suitable Agroecologies and Sowing Dates for Optimum Vegetative Growth of <i>Camelina sativa</i> L. (Cranz)/Brassicaceae/in Tigray, Ethiopia

Camelina sativa is an oilseed crop cultivated in many parts of the world but not as common in northern Ethiopia. This study investigated its vegetative growth responses across agroecological zones and sowing dates in Tigray. Soil physicochemical properties of the selected six experimental sites (Tabiyas) were analyzed before conducting field experiments. A randomized complete block design was employed. Significant variability in soil characteristics was observed in each experimental site, with pH ranging from 5.1 to 7.2. The highest organic carbon content (9.89%) was found in Tabiya Seret, while the lowest (4.67%) was in Tabiya Emba Rufael. Tabiya Genfel recorded the highest total nitrogen level (1417.1 mg/kg), and Aynalem had the lowest (974.4 mg/kg). Vegetative growth parameters such as plant height, root length, biomass, root–shoot ratio, leaf area, and flowering date were markedly influenced by sowing year, sowing date, and agroecological factors. For instance, Tabiya Genfel exhibited the tallest plants (103.54 cm), whereas the shortest (37.42 cm) were in Tabiya Emba Rufael. Root length varied significantly, with Tabiya Mearey having the longest mean root length (19.152 cm) and Tabiya Seret the shortest (11.608 cm). Dry biomass increased from 4.676 g/plant in 2019–5.975 g/plant in 2020. Higher root–shoot ratios were noted in early‐sown plants (0.080) across all agroecological zones. Overall, early sowing dates and highland agroecology, particularly with clay soil textures, enabled the crop to grow better. Further studies on soil fertilization, weeds, and pest control might be required so as to obtain the best growth performance and high yield.