Published in Scientific Papers. Series A. Agronomy, Vol. LXVIII, Issue 2
Written by Dan SUCIU, Camelia URDĂ, Alina ȘIMON, Cristina MOLDOVAN, Edward MUNTEAN, Vasile Adrian HORGA, Marcel DUDA
To explore optimal agronomic practices for maximizing rapeseed productivity and quality under specific environmental conditions, a field experiment was conducted during the 2022-2023 agricultural year in Jucu, Cluj County. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of two critical factors influencing crop performance (sowing date and row spacing) on the yield and quality of the rapeseed hybrid PT 275. Using a randomized split-plot design with three replications, the experiment tested three sowing dates (August 20, August 30, and September 10) and three row spacings (25 cm, 37.5 cm, and 50 cm). Yield data and quality indicators were assessed at the end of the growing season to determine the influence of the experimental variables, using standardized laboratory methods. The results revealed that sowing date significantly impacted yield, with August 30 emerging as the most favorable, achieving the highest yield of 3900 kg/ha, while narrower row spacings (25 cm and 37.5 cm) significantly outperformed wider spacing (50 cm). Delayed sowing (September 10) increased oil content but reduced yield, highlighting a trade-off between productivity and quality. While the genetic characteristics of the hybrid were the primary determinant of quality, the study highlighted significant variations in quality indicators associated with the technological factors examined. These findings provide actionable insights for optimizing rapeseed cultivation under temperate continental climates.
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