In other years, there are significantly different yields between growers that can be attributed to management practices such as levels of fertilization, seeding practices, timing of swathing, etc. In many growing seasons, the same grower can grow a number of different varieties with very similar management and have noticeably different yields and feel it is the difference between varieties or attributable to a variety's genetics. Most years, it is not just one factor influencing the performance of the canola crop. Often it is a result of the interaction between all three factors . There are compounding influences between the various factors.
Most farmers prefer to lower their risks.
With canola, it is best to assume risk in small manageable changes. Don't make large changes in acreage with varieties or radically alter farming practices. Grow more than one variety. With a large number of new canola varieties on the market and many new ones being registered each year, there are both concern and confusion with respect to which variety or varieties to grow. Farmers want to grow new varieties, but there is an increased risk in growing a variety that has very limited field testing.