Mirasson,
H., I.R. Palomo, R.E. Brevedan, and M.N. Fioretti
Abstract
The trend towards continuous cropping in semiarid Argentina has
highlighted the lack of alternative species, particularly in drier areas. There
is considerable interest in the development and application of plants more
effectively able to tolerate semiarid conditions.
The agronomic performance of safflower in this respect has shown definite
promise and the crop is seen as a source of high quality oil. Owing to its yield
characteristics, short growth cycle, low water requirements and tolerance to
salinity, safflower could be an ideal crop for making semiarid areas more
productive. Central semiarid Argentina covers an area of 17.2 million
hectares. From this area about 128,000 ha could be in safflower crops. Safflower
may induce diversity of agricultural commodities, improving the economic profile
of the whole region. The current report summarizes the possibilities of
introducing safflower in this region.
Keywords: safflower, central semiarid region, soil, climate, agronomy, production in Argentina.