Bilan

Cultivation Guide for 'Bilan' Fodder Beet

The 'Bilan' variety, a tetraploid multigerm fodder beet developed by the Institute of Bioenergy Crops and Sugar Beet of the NAAS of Ukraine (registered in 2026), is designed for high-yield performance in forest-steppe zones. Its cylindrical root shape and shallow soil penetration make it an ideal candidate for mechanized harvesting, significantly reducing labor costs and crop damage.

Agronomic Requirements

• Soil Management: 'Bilan' thrives in structured chernozem soils with a neutral pH (6.5–7.5). Proper soil preparation is essential to ensure aeration, as the root system requires consistent oxygen levels for optimal development.
• Sowing Strategy: Planting should commence when soil temperatures at a depth of 5–8 cm reach +6…+8°C. Early sowing is recommended to capitalize on spring moisture, which is vital for establishing a robust leaf canopy.
• Planting Density: A target density of 80,000 to 100,000 plants per hectare is recommended. With a standard 45 cm row spacing, this density ensures each plant has sufficient space to develop its wide, cylindrical root without nutrient competition.

Growth Cycle and Maintenance

During the early growth stages, 'Bilan' requires strict weed control, as initial development is relatively slow. The first inter-row cultivation should be performed as soon as the rows are clearly visible. As the plants reach the leaf-closing stage, irrigation management becomes critical. Given the variety's moderate dry matter content, maintaining consistent soil moisture is necessary to support root filling. The semi-erect leaf position and light green foliage help maintain airflow within the canopy, reducing the risk of foliar diseases during the peak summer months.