Oilseed rape (OSR) growers are being advised to consider new additions to the AHDB Cereals and Oilseeds Recommended List for 2019/20.

OSR is an important part of many rotations, with the genetics now in place resulting in gains in disease resistance and yield.

When it comes to variety, he says there are some exciting new additions on the market but also some solid favourites with proven performance, said Wynnstay combinable seed product manager Jonathan Baxendale.

He said: “Campus continues to lead the way as the favourite for growers, having been on the Recommended List since 2015. “It’s currently the most widely grown conventional OSR variety and is on the Recommended List as a control for both the North region and East/West region, demonstrating its consistency and suitability for the whole of the UK.

On the hybrid front, seed sales manager at Wynnstay Woodheads David Huish noted DK Exalte and Dazzler as two varieties to consider.

He said: “(DK Exalte) suits later drilling, and is a robust and reliable variety, with a good agronomic package and yield, along with pod shatter resistance.

“Dazzler is a new addition to the candidate list as an early maturing hybrid. It has an excellent oil content with good disease ratings of eight for stem canker and six for light leaf spot.

"It’s also turnip yellows virus resistant, having this trait without seeing a negative performance in yield.”

“On the Clearfield front, DK Imperial CL and Phoenix CL still appear to be the two main varieties for growers to consider, with both having a good combination of seed yield and autumn vigour.”

Mr Baxendale concluded: “The 2019/20 list offers a great deal of choice for growers, with varieties offering good agronomic packages which should enable crops to perform well, providing a profitable investment this winter."