A uniformity test using ‘Prophet’ crambe(Crambea abyssinica Hochst.) in a “solid seeding” of 1,296 basic units (one basic unit equaled 1.47 m2) was conducted to determine an appropriate plot shape and size for use in crambe yield testing.In analyses using Smith's regression procedure, the soil heterogeneity index, b, was calculated as 0.5361 and the optimum plot size was estimated to be 6.70 m2.Results of analyses using the modified maximum curvature technique developed by Lessman and Atkins (1963) indicated a plot size of 5.35 m2 as optimum.Plot shape had an effect on plot‐to‐plot variability. Long, narrow plots arranged with their greatest length in the direction of greatest variation resulted in a lower estimate of among plot variance.

The BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, Chemische Industrie) scale is used to describe the phenological growth stages of North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). Eight principal growth stages for germination and bud development, leaf development (crop canopy), root and perennating bud formation, peduncle elongation and inflorescence development, flowering and fruit set, development of fruit, ripening of fruit and senescence, and 42 secondary growth stages are described. A practical use of the scale is proposed with reference to the timing of application of agrochemicals for disease control.

Crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hochst ex. R. E. Fries) seed oil is believed to have potential as a specialty lubricant. Ten crambe introductions representing the original germplasm available in the US were evaluated for agronomic potential in Indiana. Greater crambe yields were obtained in plots of narrower rows. Location and row spacing had nonsignificant affects on oil production. Differences among introductions for most agronomic attributes were nonsignificant. Results indicate a need for diverse crambe germplasm.

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