Oat quality and yield as affected by kernel moisture at swathing

Increased demand for high-quality oat has rekindled interest in improving oat (Avena sativa L.) yield and quality by managing the timing of oat swathing. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of swathing at five levels of kernel moisture on yield and seed quality at Indian Head, SK, and Brandon, MB, from 1997 (Indian Head only) to 2000. The largest benefit to yield and quality was achieved when swathing was delayed from 50 to 41% kernel moisture. Kernel weight, plump seed and groat yield were optimized when kernel moisture was between 36 and 30% moisture content. Dockage, protein content and oil content also improved with later swathing dates. Swathing should not begin until a kernel moisture content of 41% has been reached. After 30% kernel moisture was reached, no improvement in oat yield and quality occurred when swathing was delayed any further. Key words: Avena sativa L., test weight, thin seed, groat yield, protein, germination