Canola seeds grow into canola plants, which are a vital source of canola oil and meal. These plants, reaching heights of three to five feet, produce pods containing numerous seeds. The seeds themselves are a rich source of oil, comprising approximately 43-45 percent oil by weight. Beyond their economic value, canola plants also add aesthetic beauty to the landscape with their small, yellow flowers.
The Canola Life Cycle
The canola plant's life cycle, from germination to seed production, typically takes about 3 1/2 months. However, the exact timeframe is influenced by several environmental factors including:
- Temperature: Optimal germination requires soil temperatures of at least 35°F (2°C).
- Moisture: Sufficient moisture is crucial, as canola struggles to grow in dry conditions.
- Sunlight: Adequate sunlight is essential for healthy growth and development.
- Soil Fertility: Nutrient-rich soil contributes to a higher yield.
Canola seeds are planted using specialized agricultural equipment like drills or planters, at a shallow depth (0.5” to 1.5"). Each pod on a mature plant typically contains 15 to 40 seeds, with approximately 3.5 to 5.5 grams per 1,000 seeds.
Global Canola Production
Canola is cultivated worldwide, with major production areas including:
- Canada: A significant producer, often referring to the crop as Argentine canola ( Brassica napus).
- United States: The Northern Plains, particularly North Dakota, represent a substantial growing region.
- Australia: A key player in global canola production.
- Europe and China: Canola, or sometimes referred to as “double low rapeseed,” is also grown extensively in these regions.
The canola seeds are harvested using combines, and while standard drills are typically used for planting, specific concaves and sieves might be needed during harvesting depending on the combine.
Canola Oil and Meal
After harvest, the canola seeds are crushed to extract canola oil and meal. Canola oil is low in saturated fat and is a widely used cooking oil. The remaining meal serves as a valuable animal feed.
