Evaluation of winter wheat varieties under organic farming conditions

Summary

Since 2012, the Hungarian Research Institute for Organic Agriculture (ÖMKi) coordinates organic wheat cultivar trials within its organic on-farm network. These strip trials were complemented by the launch of a small plot trial network in 2020. In this collaborative research, winter wheat cultivars are tested in randomized and replicated experiments on organic crop fields provided by research institutes, official trial stations, and farmers. In all cases, the varieties were nominated for the trials by the variety owners (breeders, traders) according to their experience and judgement on the cultivars’ potential for organic production. In total more than forty cultivars were involved in the experiment. On-site inspections are carried out according to specific criteria. From sowing to harvest, all data is recorded, including agronomic, environmental and weather data. We also carry out qualitative tests on post-harvest samples. To sow, you need a plot of at least 1 x 6 metres per variety. For winter wheat this means 150 grams of seed per plot. The varieties are sown in 4 replicates, in a randomized arrangement from late September to mid-October. In our post-registration test network, we look for varieties that may be suitable for organic production and perform well under these conditions. We consider safe emergence, rapid initial development and disease resistance important.
This research was funded by the Hungarian National Rural Network (MNVH) under grant number VP-20.2.-16-2016-00001, as well as by the OrganicYieldsUp and LIVESEED projects, and the Hungarian Seed Association (VSZT – Vetőmag Szövetség Szakmaközi Szervezet és Terméktanács)