The latest varieties from seed breeder NPZ UK will be showcased at Cereals – including Maverick winter oilseed rape.
One of NPZ’s biggest sellers last autumn, Maverick’s popularity – particularly in the East/West region – arises from a combination of high output, vigorous growth and a robust disease resistance package.
NPZ UK oilseed rape breeder Craig Padley says he expect the variety to have another good autumn this year. “Maverick’s high seed yield is enhanced by a high oil content of 46.5%, a level that is a significant step up from older market favourites.”
Good stem health
The variety features exceptional disease resistance from both Rlm7 and RlmS phoma resistance genes, providing stacked protection against stem canker that is rare in the market. This is added to high resistance to Light Leaf Spot.
Maverick also has moderate resistance to Turnip Yellows Virus (TuYV), says Mr Padley. Added to these factors, the variety has moderate resistance to verticillium – all of which means it has very good stem health.
“Outstanding autumn and spring vigour helps it to outpace the threats from pests. Maverick’s agronomic profile simplifies crop management and reduces harvest risk as it is a stiff-strawed variety with high resistance to lodging.”
When it comes to drilling date, Mr Padley acknowledges there has been a continuing debate on whether it is best to drill oilseed rape early or late. “That debate will surely emerge again this season,” he adds.
“Maverick can stand across that divide due to the fact it is very vigorous with high biomass to give wide drilling flexibility. It performs well even in later-drilled scenarios that go into mid-September.”
Other NPZ varieties at Cereals will include Eriksen; a new NL2 variety, with more details still to come; and top yielder Karat, which is described as an excellent all-rounder. “We have a strong line-up for autumn,” says Mr Padley.