BT 2616

Technological Potential of BT 2616

French breeding by RAGT consistently focuses on stress tolerance, and the BT 2616 hybrid is a prime example of this strategy within the sunflower segment. As a simple hybrid with a maturity period of 105–110 days, it demonstrates remarkable adaptability across various pedoclimatic conditions while maintaining consistent yield stability.

Phytosanitary Defense System

The core strength of BT 2616 lies in its genetic resistance to a complex of pathogens that often serve as the primary yield limiters. The breeders at Societe Ragt 2N S.A.S have focused on the following critical vulnerabilities:

• Verticillium and Sclerotinia: The hybrid effectively inhibits the development of fungal infections that target both the root system and the sunflower head.
• Phomopsis and Phoma: High immunity to these diseases allows the crop to preserve its photosynthetically active leaf surface until physiological maturity.

Integration with Clearfield Technology

The Clearfield system provides more than just weed control; it is an effective tool for managing broomrape (Orobanche). The ability to apply post-emergence herbicides allows for thorough field cleaning without harming the crop itself. For an agronomist, this translates to reduced competition for water and nutrients during critical growth stages. The hybrid’s oil content ranges from 47–50%, confirming its high energy potential for processing and downstream utility.