Bumper Kabuli Chickpeas

Has a very large seed size when compared to other commercially available varieties, Garnet and Kaniva. Its greater proportion 9mm seed size is likely to attract a premium of $50-$150 per tonne. Yields for BUMPER compare favourably to Garnet and Kaniva. These attributes will ensure an increased return to the grower. Its is susceptible to Ascochyta Blight, Phytophthora and Botrytis and should only be grown in areas where these diseases can be controlled.

Recommended Planting Areas: QLD, NSW & VIC with strict ascochyta management

Quality
The seed produced is mainly 9mm or larger. This is superior to that produced by Garnet and Kaniva, which is commonly 8mm or smaller. This should attract a premium of $50-$150/t.

Yield
Compares favourably to Garnet and Kaniva. Trials conducted by NSW Ag and located in NSW gave the following yield results (t/ha).

Variety Average
1997 -2001
Bumper 1.27
Kaniva 1.24
Garnet 1.21
Disease resistance

BUMPER is highly susceptible to phytophthora, Ascochyta blight and Botrytis. It should only be grown in areas where these diseases can be economically controlled with strict disease management.

NOTE: By using current disease management strategies, there has been little disadvantage to these varieties subject to the location they are grown.

See current ‘Chickpea - Management Strategies for the Northern Region’ published by NSW Ag.

BUMPER was bred and evaluated by Ted Knights of NSW Agriculture with the financial assistance of GRDC.

Growth habit
BUMPER has a very similar plant type, flowering time and maturity to Garnet and Kaniva and has shown good vigour. It should be grown with the same agronomic package as these varieties, with an adjustment in seeding rate to compensate for the larger seed size.

Suitability to NSW
BUMPER is an excellent variety for all kabuli sowings in NSW. With its yield similar to Kaniva and Garnet and a premium received for a much larger seed size, BUMPER will undoubtedly give a greater return to kabuli growers in NSW.

However, Bumper is highly susceptible to Ascochyta blight so it must be grown in areas where these diseases can be controlled. Bumper is also suitable to be grown in QLD and VIC with strict ascochyta management.