New South Wales Department of Primary Industry trials of new mustard varieties bred to fit into zero-till systems have shown that mustard can yield 50 per cent more than canola during drought, with three per cent higher oil content.

Tamworth agronomist John Holland says mustard can be sown later in western areas, because it is more heat tolerant and retains its seeds better than canola.

In trials near Burren Junction wind and hail reduced canola yields to 1.1 tonnes per hectare while mustard yielded two tonnes per hectare.

"Mustard not only has the genes to perform well in drought conditions, it also works well in zero-till systems which retain stubble to store soil moisture but which can also harbour fungal diseases," Mr Holland said.