Meaningful seed comparisons usually have the following features:
1. It comes from at least 15-20 sites, ideally from more than one year.
2. Statistical analysis is performed on the data to test its reliability. This analysis will also identify real statistically-supported differences between treatments or varieties.
3. Trials should follow a protocol applied across all sites. Without a protocol, differences might be due to factors other than those tested.
4. Trials are run by a third party (an independent source). Ideally, results should be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
The Canola Council of Canada’s Canola Performance Trials were established to provide variety data based on these principles. The tool at www.canolaperformancetrials.ca has small and large plot data from across the Prairies, and for years 2011, 2012 and 2013.