Learn to Grow Oil Crops

• Broaden the range of crops you are considering for farm planting
• Diversify your source of farm income
• Expand your knowledge and awareness of farm crop production as a supplier of services or goods to farms

Products grown using oil crops can be used for a variety of purposes including food, biofuels, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cleaning products and much more. Plant based oils are in high demand around the world, with more than 200 million metric tons of edible oils produced annually.

Who is this course for?

• A farmer hoping to diversify their crops,
• Farm workers wanting to upskill
• Anyone new to the industry – on or off farm
• Investors, service providers, consultants,  students or anyone else with an interest in learning more about growing oil crops

Lesson Structure

There are 9 lessons in this course:

• Nature & scope of oil crops
• Oil extraction
• Canola and rapeseed
• Olive oil
• Other edible oils
• Herbal and pharmaceutical oils
• Biofuel and other industrial oils
• Issues, Risks, Optimising success
• Product development and management

Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school’s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.

Choosing What To Grow and How to Grow it

Farming an oil crop can be profitable, but only if you make the right choices about what to grow, when, where and how to grow it.

The viability of farming as a business depends upon making those choices; and undertaking this course can make a significant difference to making better choices.

When considering growing any crop for plant oils, it is important to consider costs of production and processing. You might be considering integrating oil crops into an existing farm growing system by way of crop rotations, or perhaps changing direction towards growing only oilseed crops. Maybe you have plans to start a new oilseed farm or you are a farm manager looking at new opportunities. Whatever the situation, having a good idea about costs is necessary to minimise risks and make wise decisions.

Learn to evaluate costs and returns from feedstock production, oilseed crushing, and biodiesel processing. The potential of oilseed feedstocks: canola, flax, camelina, yellow mustard, sunflower, and safflower will be assessed for productivity, production costs and revenues.

Consider the cost of production, yield, technical parameters, and market prices.  Consider external factors such as social costs and trends such as changing political, financial and legal factors. Biofuel production for example only achieves economic feasibility when the social cost is included in analysis.  A central motivation for government biofuel policy is reducing the dependence on fossil fuels, by shifting to renewable energy sources.

A Statement of Attainment in Agronomy – Oil Crops from Courses Direct can benefit a wide range of individuals and professionals in the agricultural and agronomy sectors. Here are some specific groups who would find this course particularly valuable:

Farmers and Agricultural Producers

Farmers specializing in oil crops like canola, sunflower, and soybean will gain advanced knowledge on best practices for crop production, pest management, and soil health. This can lead to higher yields and more sustainable farming practices.

Agricultural Consultants

Professionals providing advice to farmers and agricultural businesses will benefit from up-to-date information on oil crop agronomy, enabling them to offer more accurate and effective recommendations to their clients.

Agronomy Students and Graduates

Students or recent graduates in agriculture, agronomy, or related fields can use this course to specialize further, making them more attractive to potential employers and enhancing their career prospects.

Agricultural Extension Officers

Government or private sector workers who support and educate farmers can improve their knowledge and skills, enabling them to provide better guidance and support to the farming communities they serve.

Researchers and Academics

Individuals involved in agricultural research can benefit from the latest insights and techniques in oil crop production, which can inform their studies and experiments.

Agribusiness Managers

Managers and decision-makers in agribusiness companies will gain a deeper understanding of the agronomy of oil crops, aiding in more informed business strategies and operations.

Entrepreneurs and Investors

Those looking to invest in or start an agribusiness focused on oil crops will benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the industry, helping them to make informed decisions and develop viable business plans.

Environmental and Sustainability Advocates

Professionals focused on sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation can use the knowledge gained from this course to promote practices that improve soil health and reduce the environmental impact of oil crop farming.

Policy Makers and Regulators

Government officials and policy makers involved in agricultural policy and regulation can use the course to inform their decisions and create more effective and supportive policies for the agricultural sector.

International Development Workers

Individuals working with NGOs and international organizations on agricultural development projects can enhance their skills and knowledge, aiding in the development of effective programs to support oil crop farmers in developing regions.

Hobby Farmers and Enthusiasts

Individuals with a personal interest in agriculture and oil crops will find the course enriching, providing them with the knowledge to pursue their interests more effectively.

By enrolling in this course, participants will gain valuable skills and knowledge that can enhance their professional capabilities, support their career growth, and contribute to the advancement of sustainable and productive agriculture.