Reducing input use: optimising nitrogen use and variety selection in organic canola cultivation

Canola (oilseed rape) is a crop that is well adapted to northern European climates, can perform very well in Switzerland and produces good quality edible oil. However, it is very demanding in terms of inputs, particularly with respect to nitrogen fertilisation and plant protection against pests. This project aims to identify varieties with characteristics that favour extensive production, to improve the description of varieties for low-input production and to promote integrated pest management.

As part of a previous project ("COLORS"), we showed that the vigour of varieties is an important factor in pest tolerance and that glucosinolates (sulphur compounds) have a major influence on insect attacks.
Our aim is to highlight the ability of canola varieties to make the most of nitrogen and sulphur additives, thereby reducing pest attacks and improving tolerance.

The combination of trials in greenhouses, on small plots in research stations and in strips on farmers' farms will make it possible:

• to identify cultivable varieties with low inputs (fertilisers and plant protection products)
• to promote the transmission of information
• to rapidly apply the results of the research. Particular attention will be paid to farmers' attitudes to innovation and their appropriation of research results.

• Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG)

• Agroscope

• Christen Mathias (Department of Soil Sciences)

Project partner

• fibl.org: Project "COLORS" in the FiBL Projectdatabase

• Cultivation Technique Arable Crops (Department of Soil Sciences, FiBL Switzerland)