Oilseeds are plant species whose
seeds contain high oil content (20-50%). Oilseeds are members of many different families and species, which produce oils and fats either for human and livestock consumption, or for industrial
applications.
All of the oilseeds, except sunflower,
have tiny seeds which require shallow seeding. This means that the upper layers of the soils must be moderately fertile and moist for the seeds to germinate quickly. With these requirements and
their preference for cooler temperatures in the early growing season, oilseeds are more common to the parkland than to other growing areas.
Why would they be grown?
The most economically important oilseed crops in Canada are canola, soybeans, and flaxseed. Mustard seed, safflower, and sunflower are also important.
Saskatchewan and Alberta are the
largest producers of canola in Canada, producing 80% of Canada's canola evenly between them. This particular oilseed produces superior oil and meal. Canola has become a major source of income for prairie farmers, especially in northern Saskatchewan with shorter growing seasons. |
