Die Bodenkultur - Journal for Land Management, Food and Environment

K. EGHBAL and G. KAHNT:

The effect of different plant densities and nitrogen applications on yield achievement and fatty acid components of Linseed (Linum usitetissimum L.) as a renewable resource

Summary

A poly-factorial experiment was conducted for two years 1990 and 1991 at two locations with cool and warm climate requirements. In this study the effect of different growing methods and ecological conditions were investigated on yield potential and quality of Linseed oil. Results of the experiments indicated that there was no effect of plant densities (600 and 800 per m2) on yield level of Linseed. The optimum amount of nitrogen showed a great dependance to different locations and also weather conditions. Higher N-applications than 25 to 50 kg/ha decreased Linseed yield. The fat content was affected by interaction between years and locations. Dry and warm weather increased the content, especially on cooler location in comparison to the warmer location. Applications of nitrogen reduced the percentage of fat content in any cases. The linolenic acid (C 18: 3) content was affected by locations, years and also N-applications. Content was less 1991 due to dry and warm weather conditions. Content decreased as nitrogen application increased. Key words: linseed, yield potential, nitrogen, fat content, linolenic acid.