UNDERSTANDING SOUTHERN IDAHO SUGAR BEET PLANTING DATES AND POPULATIONS

摘要

There are approximately 180,000 acres of sugar beets (beta vulgaris L) grown in the Amalgamated Sugar Company's growing area. The sugar beets are grown mostly in Idaho, with some acres being grown in Oregon and Washington. For the past 30 years, SugarBeet Growers have planted sugar beets as early as possible while trying to establish stands of 120-150 sugar beet plants per 100 feet of row (29,000-36,000 plants per acre) using a 22" row spacing. This was based upon research done 30 years ago using different seed genetics, grower agronomic practices and technology. The Roundup Ready~R (RR) seed technology with its increased seed costs and technology fees along with improvements of sugar beet seed genetics have changed grower agronomic practices. We wondered if these changes have also changed the traditional date and planting optimums. In addition, for Snake River Sugar Beet Growers it would be helpful to have a replant guideline to help them make replant management decisions. A date and population study was needed to update crop consultants and sugar beet growers about when to plant, how much seed to plant, and when to replant.