Rapeseed and Mustard:
Rapeseed and Mustard are important species grown as oilseeds in Pakistan. These species are rich source of oil and contains 40-46% oil. In addition, its meal has 38-40% protein. Rapeseed and Mustard varieties having less than 2% Erucic acid in oil and less than 30 Umole/g glucosinolate in oil free meal are called canola varieties or hybrids. The oil from canola quality rapeseed varieties is superior for human consumption and meal is excellent feed for animals and birds. In Pakistan, it is grown in all the provinces over an area of 26.02 thousand hectares with annual production of 102.0 thousand tones (2018-19). The major growing areas of Rapeseed and Mustard include Attock, Rawalpindi, Jehlum, Chakwal, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpor, Bhawalnagr, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh.
Rapeseed is closely related to other Brassica species like cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and brown and oriental mustard. These relationships are important to canola plant breeders because they provide a large source of genetic material for research and development of new cultivars.
There are base and enhanced insecticide and fungicide seed treatments available, which can offer canola protection in its early growth stages. To maximize efficacy of insecticide and fungicide seed treatments and promote rapid emergence, it is recommended to plant canola 1.25 to 2.5 centimeters (0.5 to 1 inches) deep into a warm moist seedbed using a seeding rate that targets 50 to 80 plants/m2 (5-8 plants/ft2). This will help the crop quickly grow through the early growth stages when it is most susceptible to seedling diseases and flea beetle damage. Favourable canola growing conditions also increase the chance of healthy plants which allows plants to better handle any stressors, including insect or disease pressure.
There are many commercially available seed treatments for canola.
Hombre
Sega bright
Pinkona
Since canola plant establishment is so important and because canola seed is so valuable, fungicide and insecticide seed treatments are economical ways to provide the protection young canola seedlings need to survive.
Currently all available canola hybrid seed is sold pre-treated (with a seed treatment). Seed treatment options in canola are almost exclusively registered for commercial treatment with a closed transfer system. A few varieties can be legally saved for a grower’s own use, but the grower would have to first check that they aren’t violating any legal obligations. Also, in addition to the insect and disease risks from planting untreated seed, research has demonstrated yield and economic advantages and agronomic disadvantages of growing farm-saved seed from hybrids rather than purchased hybrids . Therefore, planting certified treated seed is highly recommended.
Starter Fertilizers treatment:
Dapper or BOP (Bio Organic Phosphate)
After 15 days Sulphur 2kg 80%