Lenny

Consistent results with Clearfield technology

When we switched to growing the spring rapeseed variety 'Lenny' from the Austrian breeding company Saatzucht Donau, our main goal was to secure a crop that wouldn't require a constant battle against weeds throughout the season. The Clearfield technology works perfectly here: after herbicide application, the field remains clean, which is critical for crop development during the initial growth stages.

Development features and yield

In practice, 'Lenny' plants show quite compact growth, with stalk heights ranging from 90 to 100 cm. This is convenient: the rapeseed does not lodge and creates no issues during harvesting, which significantly reduces grain losses. Flowering is prolonged, lasting 30–40 days, allowing the crop to better withstand temperature stress and efficiently form oil content in the 45–50% range. A yield potential of 40–50 quintals per hectare is a realistic figure, provided agricultural practices are followed and a seeding density of 700,000–800,000 seeds per hectare is maintained.

Technological aspects

• Sowing: As a population variety, it requires precise adherence to seeding rates. An optimal range of 700–800k units/ha ensures uniform stand establishment.
• Harvesting: Given the average plant height, combining proceeds as expected, without placing unnecessary strain on the header.
• Oil content: The high oil content makes 'Lenny' attractive to processors, so there are usually no problems with selling the produced harvest.

Working with this variety is comfortable for those who prioritize intensive farming. Austrian genetics provide a predictable outcome: the plant responds well to fertilizer and requires a careful approach to crop protection. For our farm, this is a solid choice that ensures a clean field and stable oil content, which ultimately defines our economic success.