Indentification of strong and weak yield determining components of winter oilseed rape compared with winter wheat

Yield formation of winter oilseed rape was compared with that of winter wheat in terms of absorption of PAR, radiation use efficiency and harvest index by means of crop growth simulation. Cumulative incoming PAR from April 15 until maturity, cumulative absorption of PAR, radiation use efficiency and harvest index were lower for winter oilseed rape compared with winter wheat. To improve potential seed yield of winter oilseed rape, a crop type with increased cumulative absorption of PAR, radiation use efficiency and harvest index is desirable. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.