Belarusian scientists developed new rapeseed varieties

Belarusian scientists have developed new high-yield rapeseed varieties adapted to local climatic conditions, with Yadviga Pilyuk, the Head of the Oilseed Crops Department at the Scientific and Practical Centre for Arable Farming at the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) of Belarus, sharing details about the latest developments, BelTA reports

A highlight for 2026 is the Orlan winter rapeseed variety. It is known for consistently high yields, averaging 6.1 tonnes per hectare, and excellent winter hardiness, ranging from 95 to 100 percent. This variety exhibits strong branching, uniform flowering and ripening, and resistance to phoma disease, as well as major leaf and stem diseases, lodging and shattering. Additionally, it responds well to growth regulation.

According to Ms. Pilyuk, developing a winter rapeseed variety usually takes around ten years, whereas spring varieties require seven to eight years. The process is lengthy and includes both field and laboratory testing. Characteristics such as frost resistance, drought tolerance, uniform ripening, and levels of glucose, sucrose and other micronutrients are assessed.

“Orlan is a new-generation variety with high oil content. It has been officially registered, and seed production is underway. This variety will serve as a basis for developing hybrids. Currently, the Centre for Arable Farming is testing 145 winter and 68 spring rapeseed hybrids, with 7 already submitted for state trials. “Soon, we will have a range of hybrids that can compete with foreign varieties,” the scientist stated.

Other recently regionalised winter varieties include Kardinal and Rodnik, both of which have been successful. Their adoption has exceeded expectations by 395 percent over two years. For instance, Rodnik has a high oleic acid content, producing oil comparable in quality to olive oil. Kardinal variety, favoured by farms, has shown yields of 6 tonnes per hectare.

Among the new spring rapeseed varieties are Yaguar and Gelius, which are also being actively introduced into production. Starting this year, trials will begin for winter rapeseed hybrids Zubr and Znachny, as well as spring hybrids Lavr, Aist and Almir. Additionally, two winter rapeseed hybrid varieties, Komandor and Kornet, are planned for testing in 2025.