Italy tests winter sowing of sugar beet

Researchers in Italy are exploring the potential of winter sowing of sugar beet as Mediterranean growing conditions become increasingly constrained by climate change. Traditional spring sowing is facing growing challenges due to summer drought, high temperatures, and the spread of diseases such as cercospora leaf spot.

A two-year field study was conducted in Legnaro (Padua, northeastern Italy), testing nine sugar beet varieties across multiple sowing dates from late September to early November. The aim was to evaluate how sowing timing affects crop development and yield performance.

Results showed that winter survival largely depends on the plant’s developmental stage before the onset of cold conditions. The highest survival rates were recorded for sowings in September and early October, while late sowing in early November resulted in losses of up to 80%.

However, very early sowing increased the risk of bolting, which negatively affects yield and root quality. The most balanced outcomes were achieved with late October sowing, combining moderate winter survival with strong productivity in selected varieties.

Some hybrids under late autumn sowing conditions achieved root yields of 81–84 t/ha. Sugar content varied depending on seasonal weather conditions, with higher values recorded in drier years.

Researchers conclude that late October sowing, combined with appropriate variety selection, offers the best compromise between winter survival, bolting risk, and yield. Further studies are needed to compare this system directly with traditional spring sowing under commercial conditions.

Tags: sugar, Italy