Australian researchers target frost resistance in canola crops

Agricultural researchers in Australia are conducting genetic studies to develop canola varieties with enhanced frost resistance. Led by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) with investment from the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), the project aims to protect yields in frost-prone regions. Canola is a significant break crop, valued at approximately $2.7 billion annually in Western Australia, but it remains highly sensitive to frost during flowering and pod development.

The research involves screening Australian and international canola lines to identify genetic material capable of producing viable pods under cold conditions. Two years of field trials are being conducted using temperature sensors to monitor the crop canopy and understand the relationship between plant height, air temperature, and yield loss.

Additionally, studies in Western Australia have explored expanding the sowing window for canola and lupins. Field experiments conducted between 2019 and 2020 investigated how different cultivars respond to early and late sowing to optimize establishment, phenology, and overall yield.