Economic Valuation of Varieties and Breeding Objectives

Breeding planning and variety valuation can be supported only if weighting factors for the economically relevant performance traits are available. In plant breeding they are necessary for the calculation of selection indices as well as for the comparison of varieties and for quantifying the monetary impact of breeding progress. In this article the economic weights for the most important performance traits of sugar beet are calculated from the farmer's, the sugar factory's, and the national economy's point of view. Based upon economic weights for beet yield, sugar content, potassium, sodium, and ammo nitrogen content, a total of 19 varieties was compared with regard to physical and economic performance. The investigation shows that “best” and “worst” varieties differ in gross margin per ha by 270.— to 330.— DM. Indications were given for possibilities and limitations of the application of economic weights in breeding planning.