2010 UTAH SAFFLOWER RESEARCH RESULTS
Agronomy & Pest Management
Michael Pace
Agriculture/Horticulture Agent
UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY
BRIGHAM CITY
Abstract
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) is becoming an increasingly popular crop in Utah on dry farms because of its deep tap root and because it is an excellent crop rotation used for controlling weeds such as jointed goatgrass in winter wheat fields. The Ag Marketing Resource Center shows 23 million pounds of safflower being produced in Utah in 2010. The number of safflower varieties has increased in recent years and part of our research continues to compare new safflower varieties to the field standard (S-208). Replicated plots were planted in early May in a Timpanogos Silt Loam soil at the USU Blue Creek Research Farm. Elevation at the site is 5,138 feet. Fertilization included 40 units of N (16-16-8) and no herbicide was applied. Plots were harvested with a small grain combine in late September. Pounds of Dry matter (DM) produced per acre ranged from 951 pounds (CW 3268) to 691 pounds (S-719). Color scores and oil content were also determined for all varieties. Seed Tech S-333 had the best color score and STI 50 had the highest percent oil content (46.1) Other parts of our research evaluated spacing and planting rates. Seeding rates were planted in 6 pound increments, ranging from 6 to 30 pounds and the row spacing trial was spaced in 6, 18 and 30 inch increments. Plots were sprinkler irrigated twice in early July for 5.5 hours each day (6 total inches applied). 6 inch row spacing on 18 inch centers showed the highest yields (4,500 lbs./A).
Authors: Creech, E., Israelsen, C., Pace, M.
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Creech, E. Extension Agronomist, Utah State University, Utah, 84322
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Israelsen, C. Extension Agent, Utah State University, Utah, 84321
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Pace, M. Agriculture/Horticulture Agent, Utah State University, Utah, 84302