We use cookies on our website. Some are necessary for the operation of the website. You can also allow cookies for statistical purposes. You can adjust the data protection settings or agree to all cookies directly.
Data Protection Declaration
Imprint
Intensification of the production and the improvement of the quality of seed onion by the selection of variety and strategy of fertilisation
Project
Project code: 03OE056/1
Contract period: 01.03.2004
- 31.12.2006
Budget: 156,238 Euro
Purpose of research: Applied research
In the BLE research project 'Intensification of the production and the improvement of the quality of seed onion by the selection of variety and strategy of fertilisation' (03OE056/1), field and storing trials were carried out from 2004 - 2006 to optimise the organic cultivation of onions under the conditions in northern Germany. During these three years, 11 or 12 seed onion varieties were tested respectively. The range of seed onions tested during the first two years did not show any resistance against downy mildew (Peronospora destructor). In 2006, three new varieties that are resistant against mildew were taken into account, but downy mildew could not be observed at all. The yields differed every year. The varieties ''Summit'' and ''Profit'', which are considered successful in northern Germany, showed the highest yields. During the three years of trial, the amount of necessary nitrogen supply for seed onions, the effect of organic plant and animal fertilisers as well as the influence of further fertilising activities were analysed. To reach a medium yield, in 2004 a nitrogen input of 60 kg N/ha with sowing was sufficient. Reaching a very low yield in the years 2005 and 2006, the nitrate content of the soil as well as the nitrogen mineralisation during the vegetation period were adequate to cover the nitrogen requirements of the onions. During the first two years of trial, the cultivation of planting onions and planted seed onions was compared regarding different seed and crop densities. The yield was high altogether. During the third year of trial, four different varieties were examined concerning their suitability for advance planting and achieved high yields by using this method in and subsequent planting. The two new mildew-resistant varieties remained completely free of mildew even though the rate of infestation was high and also achieved a significantly higher yield.
During both years of trial the onions of the screening of varieties and of the fertilising trials showed good storing characteristics. The loss of weight during storing reached 3-5%. The tendency to shoot after storing differed between varieties and both years. The different methods of fertilising did not influence the storing abilities. A lower supply with potassium and sulphur led to a higher degree of shooting after storing.
Section overview
Subjects
- Crop Production
- Organic Farming
Framework programme
Federal Organic Farming Scheme and other forms of sustainable agriculture (BÖLN)
Funding programme
Excutive institution
Competence Center of organic farming in Lower Saxony GmbH (KÖN)
