Splendor HO,LL Speciality Oilseed Rape
Key Benefits


A conventional winter oilseed rape with a valuable high oleic low-linolenic (HOLL) oil profile
Used to produce healthy low-transfat and stable frying oil offering a new market opportunity
Moderately good yield and gross output
Good agronomics and disease resistance
Oil attracts a significant premium

Yield and Quality

Independent trials show consistent performance from Splendor

Source: Mean of 6 trials, NIAB 2006

A significant premium is available for the oil
(subject to contract)

Note: Results from Monsanto's Vistive programme 2007

Splendor showed consistent field performance
in 2007
Monsanto's rapid oil quality analysis service, showed that the majority of samples in 2007 fell comfortably within the maximum linolenic acid levels and secured the HOLL premium

Disease Resistance


Splendor shows excellent Phoma and Stem Canker resistance
The variety also shows moderately good Light Leaf
Spot resistance


Source: 2 year national list data compared to HGCA recommended list 2008


Agronomy


Splendor is medium height with excellent lodging resistance and stem stiffness
It shows medium flowering and medium to early maturity
Splendor is a slower developing variety and so is more suited to earlier sowing dates
Good management of Volunteer oilseed rape is important as these can increase the linolenic acid content and reduce the oil premium
Fields should be chosen with volunteer control in mind. Ideally a 1 in 4/5 rotation or very good
stubble hygiene


Source: 2 year National List Trials

Drilling Rates


Aim for an even spring population of 50-60 plants per m2
Target seed rate depends on expected establishment and winter losses
Seedbed quality, previous cropping and agronomic factors need to be considered with the aid of local knowledge and experience
Drill by target seed number (seeds per square metre), not seed weight