Agronomic and seed quality evaluation of Camelina sativa in western Canada – R. K. Gugel and K. C. Falk – Canadian Journal of Plant Science – June 2006

Summary: There is renewed interest in Camelina due to the unique fatty acid profile of the seed oil and its potential value in industry, cosmetics and human nutrition. Agronomic trials were conducted in 2002 and 2005 with 19 Camelina and three oilseed Brassica accessions at sites in Saskatchewan and Alberta. Camelina matured relatively early and was more tolerant of drought and flea beetle infestation than the Brassica oilseeds. Camelina seed size was significantly smaller. Yields and oil contents were highest at the most northern location. The most abundant fatty acids were oleic (12.8–14.7%), linoleic (16.3–17.2%), linolenic (36.2–39.4%) and eicosenoic (14.0–15.5%). Prospects of developing improved Camelina germplasm for western Canadian environments are good but stand establishment, fertility requirements and broadleaf weed control options need to be investigated. Acceptance as a new oilseed crop will also require developing sustainable markets for the oil and meal. Link: http://pubs.aic.ca/doi/abs/10.4141/P04-081

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