UAF-11 Mustard Seeds: Production Technology and Details
Overview:
UAF-11 is a high-yielding mustard variety developed by the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF), Pakistan. This variety is known for its improved agronomic traits and adaptability to local growing conditions.
Key Characteristics:
- High Yield Potential: UAF-11 has a potential yield of up to 45 maunds (approximately 1,800 kg) per acre, making it an attractive choice for farmers aiming for high productivity.
- Early Maturity: This variety matures in approximately 98 days, allowing for timely harvesting and fitting into various cropping systems.
- Short Stature: With a plant height of around 120 cm, UAF-11 is less prone to lodging, especially in regions with strong winds or heavy rainfall.
- High Oil Content: The seeds contain about 49% oil, making UAF-11 a valuable variety for oil extraction purposes.
Agronomic Practices:
- Sowing Time: The optimal sowing period is from mid-October to mid-November.
- Seed Rate: A recommended seed rate of 2.5 to 3 kg per acre ensures the desired plant population.
- Sowing Method: Line sowing with a row-to-row distance of 30 cm is advised for better crop management and mechanization.
- Fertilization: A basal application of 1 bag of Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) and 1 bag of Urea per acre is recommended to meet the nutritional needs of the crop.
- Irrigation: Typically, 2 to 3 irrigations are required during the growing season, depending on soil moisture and rainfall.
- Weed Control: Timely weeding, especially during the early growth stages, is essential to reduce competition for nutrients and sunlight.
Advantages:
- Economic Benefit: The high yield and oil content of UAF-11 can lead to increased profitability for farmers.
- Adaptability: UAF-11 is suitable for cultivation in various agro-climatic zones across Pakistan.
- Disease Resistance: This variety shows resistance to common mustard diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
