Seed yield of two new quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) breeding lines as affected by sowing date in Central Italy

Research on the introduction of quinoa in Italy is currently lacking. The present research was aimed at identifying the correct sowing period. Field experiment was consucted in Cesa, Tuscany, in 2017. Two new breeding lines coded as DISPAA-Q42 and DISPAA-Q47-CB were utilized. Three sowing dates (SD) were implemented: February 23; March 17 and April 27. Results showed that the most successful SD was February 23. A significant decrease in both seed yield and a delay in phenological phases, relating to plant maturation and flowering was associated with the sequential delay in SD in both lines. Results also showed a significant effect of lines on yield, true-leaf stage development, flower development and maturity. Only DISPAA-Q42 was considered suitable for cultivation in the Tuscan environment. DISPAA-Q47-CB was the more susceptible line, due to the sequential delay in SD and delayed plant maturation. No effect between lines was evident for protein and saponin content. The present study clearly shows the potential for the successful cultivation of quinoa in Central Italy, and highlights the necessity of taking into consideration both breeding lines and SD in order to accomplish this goal.