Work

Canola grain yield and quality response to Sunn hemp cover crop, combined nano zinc and copper, and nitrogen fertiliser application under different agroecological zones

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Canola production requires considerable nitrogen fertilisation, which negatively impacts the environment. This study evaluated the effects of Sunn hemp cover crop, nano zinc and copper, and nitrogen fertiliser on grain, oil and protein yields at Syferkuil and Ofcolaco during 2023 and 2024. Methods: Cover crop was planted, slashed, and incorporated into the soil 60 days after planting, then followed by canola in a split split-plot design with 16 treatments and 3 replications. Statistical analysis was conducted using JASP software 0.19.3. Results: Results showed increases in grain yield (17% to 43%), oil yield (21% to 68%), and protein yield (21% to 47%) with cover crop incorporation, although location-specific variances were noted. At Syferkuil, nano zinc and copper enhanced grain yield by 15% to 17% and protein yield by 16% to 27%. Nitrogen fertilisation at 120 kgN ha-1 also resulted in higher oil yields, which was comparable to 180 kgN ha-1, although this varied across seasons and locations. Discussion: Overall, cover crop, nano zinc and copper can reduce nitrogen inputs while maintaining oil yield depending on specific conditions.

Source: Frontiers in Plant Science

DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2025.1706625

Authors: Mahlare Mapula Mokgophi, Kingsley Kwabena Ayisi, Pholosho Mmateko Kgopa, Mapotso Anna Kena

Institution: University of Limpopo

Language: English

Topic: Agricultural Science and Fertilization

Subfield: Soil Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Climate action, Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801