CTPS Flax and Hemp: new varieties registered and launch of strategic trial networks for 2026
The CTPS Flax and Hemp section met on 21 January and approved the changes to the Catalogue and the proposals for inclusion on List A:
- One variety of hemp for fibre and seed use,
- Two varieties of winter fibre flax and one variety of spring fibre flax,
- Two varieties of winter oilseed flax and one variety of spring oilseed flax under the heading “yellow grains”.
The section also approved the inclusion in the Catalogue of the first two varieties of hemp, one intended for the production of CBG (cannabigerol) and the other for the production of CBD (cannabidiol).
The section adopted the implementation of two new trial networks as early as the 2026 campaign:
- A network dedicated to characterising the grain yield (seeds) of fibre flax varieties from the 2026 season, in line with industry expectations and in accordance with the SEMAE sector plan. This additional characterisation is linked to issues surrounding seed availability for this crop.
- A network of three inoculated trial sites dedicated to evaluating oilseed and fibre flax varieties for septoria, constituting an operational follow-up to the results of the Linicolin project.
The section was also informed of the study conducted by Terres Univia on the cadmium and hydrocyanic acid content of oilseed flax varieties. This issue, which is common to other species in terms of cadmium content, is a cause for concern for the human food market.
Finally, in response to a request from the industry, GEVES has produced a guide describing flax varieties, which is available to everyone online. This guide is a training resource for industry stakeholders and aims to assist in the characterisation of varieties in applications for registration and protection.
