Corteva Agriscience is stating that a new winter oilseed rape hybrid variety is standing up to pressure from the fungal disease sclerotinia as infection rates begin to rise in different parts of the UK.
PT303 Protector Sclerotinia from Pioneer, the seed brand of Corteva, is reportedly living up to its claim to be the first variety offering genetic tolerance to the disease.
Symptoms of the disease have been observed at a Corteva trial near Ingatestone, Essex. In the three-hectare block, PT303 is being grown next to a different hybrid established commercially by the farm. The trial showcases a stark contrast in disease levels.
The wet humid conditions of recent weeks have led to a spike in reports of sclerotinia, however, Corteva is reporting that the trials show a 75% reduction in severity when infection rates reach 25% or above.
With the pathogen remaining in the soil for up to eight years in some cases, seeds & inoculants manager Andy Stainthorpe said that PT303 is a good option for farmers looking to add a layer of built-in protection against the disease.
“We are starting to see the exciting potential of PT303. We are seeing a visible lack of sclerotinia when compared to a different hybrid sown in the same field. The infection seems to have taken hold despite the whole trial field having received one fungicide at flowering time.
PT303 Essex 15 July 2021 
Commercial standard OSR Essex 15 July 2021
“This trial is a direct demonstration of PT303’s inherent sclerotinia tolerance, which could prevent a reduction in yield as high as 60%. This comparison confirms our view that the trait incorporated into PT303 is a crucial one for growers looking for consistent protection against this damaging and unpredictable disease.
“In addition, PT303 has already shown in AHDB Recommended List trials results that it can deliver the highest yields and vigour, which growers will rightly be demanding to exploit the current high prices for oilseed rape.
“Where possible, the highest genetic yield potential should be combined with the strongest agronomic package and PT303 also offers proven TuYV resistance in addition to its unique sclerotinia tolerance.”
For more information go to www.corteva.co.uk