Assessment of a crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hochst) crop under no-tillage in different sowing dates

Crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hoschst) is a winter oilseed crop with yield potential of 1500 kg ha-1. It is indicated for crop rotation systems and tolerates moderate frost. However, crambe presents thermal and water limitations that influence sowing dates since it needs water at blooming and at least 200 mm rainfall until it reaches the flowering stage. This study aimed to assess the performance of a crambe crop in different sowing dates. The experiment was conducted on the experimental farm of Assis Gurgacz College (Faculdade Assis Gurgacz – FAG) Cascavel – Parana, at an altitude of 700 m, within latitudes 24°56’25.39” S and 24°56’45.39” S and longitudes 53°30'9.89" W and 53°31'17.01" W. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks with three sowing dates (April, June and July) and five replications. Phenometric parameters such as plant height, dry mass, plants per meter, grain yield and mass of 1000 grains were assessed and data were subjected to Tukey’s test at 5% probability. Phenometric variables were influenced by sowing dates. Degree days and rainfall influenced the results. April has proven to be the best month for sowing.   Key words: Winter oilseed crop, cycle, development, production, Crambe abyssinica Hoschst.