Summary
This field trial compared transplant and direct-seed methods for quinoa production in the Pacific Northwest, finding that transplanted quinoa demonstrated higher survival rates, faster developmental progression, and greater seed yields than direct-seeded crops. Whilst transplants were more branched and shorter, they exhibited higher lodging rates, though this decreased with later planting dates. The findings suggest transplanting offers a practical intensification method for urban and peri-urban quinoa growers familiar with transplant technology.
UK applicability
The study was conducted in western Washington state's maritime temperate climate, which differs substantially from most UK growing conditions. However, the methodology and agronomic findings regarding transplant establishment, weed management, and yield optimisation may be relevant to UK growers exploring alternative crops, particularly in southern or horticultural regions.
Key measures
Plant survival rates, time to developmental stage maturity, seed yield, plant height, branching, lodging rates across three quinoa varieties and three planting date timings
Outcomes reported
The study compared transplanting and direct-seeding methods for quinoa across three varieties and multiple planting dates on two farms in western Washington state, measuring survival rates, developmental stage progression, yield, plant morphology, and lodging incidence.
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