Agronomic and seed quality evaluation of Camelina sativa in western Canada

Renewed interest in Camelina sativa is primarily due to the unique fatty acid profile of the seed oil and its potential value in industry, cosmetics and human nutrition. To exploit C. sativa in western Canada, more information is needed on the performance of this crop in this region. Following a preliminary evaluation in 2001, replicated agronomic trials were conducted in 2002 and 2005 with 19 C. sativa and three oilseed Brassica accessions at Saskatoon and Scott, Saskatchewan and Beaverlodge, Alberta. The C. sativa accessions matured relatively early and were more tolerant of drought and flea beetle infestations than the Brassica oilseeds. Some C. sativa accessions had seed yields competitive with those of the Brassica oilseeds, but seed size was significantly smaller. Seed yields and oil contents of all crop species tested were highest at Beaverlodge, the most northern location. The Brassica oilseeds generally had higher oil contents than C sativa; the highest oil contents of each crop species tested were associated with the lowest protein contents. In general, average oil and protein contents for C. sativa ranged from 38 to 43% and from 27 to 32%, respectively; for the Brassica checks, oil and protein contents ranged from 38 to 53% and from 21 to 33%, respectively, across all species. Variation in fatty acid composition was higher among the C. sativa accessions than among locations, but overall the ranges of individual fatty acids were relatively narrow. The most abundant fatty acids were oleic (12.8-14.7%), linoleic (16.3-17.2%), linolenic (36.2-39.4%) and eicosenoic (14.0-15.5%). The prospects of developing improved C. sativa germplasm for particular western Canadian environments are good; of primary importance are increased seed size and oil content. Additionally, stand establishment, fertility requirements and broadleaf weed control options need to be investigated. Acceptance of this species as a new oilseed crop for western Canada will also require developing sustainable markets for the oil and meal.