Row spacing and seeding rate: management practices that influence flax production

Abstract

A three year study (1988-90) assessed the potential of row spacing and seeding rate to maintain flax yield in the presence of weeds. Flax seed yield was measured in three row spacings (9, 18, and 27 cm) and three seeding rates (300, 600, and 900 seeds m-2) of flax. Poor growing conditions in 1988 and 1989 resulted in small differences in flax seed yield among row spacings, seeding rates and types of weed competition. In 1990, a 900-seeds m-2 seeding rate increased seed yield in those types of weed competition that had the lowest average seed yield. A 9-cm row spacing increased seed yield in the absence of broadleaf weeds. Mechanisms of competition and practical implications of the results are discussed.