Varieties, seeding rate and nitrogen fertilization on winter barley

In order to take stock of winter barley cultivation and especially the differences between six and two-row genotypes, field trials were implemented between 2005 and 2007 at the locations Changins and Goumoëns. Six and two-row varieties differed in yield level, yield formation and quality factors. Seeding rates between 150 and 300 seeds / m² were generally sufficient. Six-row variety canbenefit from a higher density under favorable growing conditions. Both variety types reacted similarly to nitrogen fertilization. An increased fertilization produced higher yields when growing conditions were favorable, especially water availability. The superior yield of the six-row variety was explained by a higher number of grains produced. Higher tillering and heavier grains by the two-row variety were not sufficient to compensate for a lower number of grains per spike. The two-row variety showed higher protein fat and minerals contents. These parameters were influenced by nitrogen fertilization, while plant density had no effect. These data were compared with reference values of the Swiss Feed Database and of the Guidelines for Fertilization Practices.