Science

High rates of parasitism on diamondback moth larvae

Key result: This study continued work initiated by earlier research which showed that parasitism of diamondback moth larvae and pupae can be relatively high early in the season. Canola producers are encouraged to carefully monitor populations, waiting a few days after nominal thresholds are reached to provide beneficial insects an opportunity to control larvae and...

Science

Storage bags work best with dry canola

Key result: This research looked at the feasibility of bag storage for canola and the effects on seed quality based on moisture content and length of storage time. Dry canola seeds can be safely stored for six to eight months in bags, but canola at 12 per cent moisture should be stored only temporarily. Project...

Science

Less seed-placed fertilizer means more seed survival

Lee Erickson discovered that high rates of fertilizer in the seed row were having a devastating effect on his canola seed survival.

Science

EC cannot help make VR strategies more consistent

Key Result: While soil electrical conductivity (EC) measurement is a strong indicator of soil clay and moisture content, it cannot help to make variable rate (VR) fertilizer programs more consistent. Producers using VR should be prepared to use a specific strategy for each field each year. Project title, Principal investigators: “Understanding soil variability for effective...

Science

Real-time diagnosis in the field

Key Result: Researchers were able to develop and validate nine real-time qPCR assays targeting eight different phytoplasma (aster yellows) species along with P. brassicae (clubroot) and L. maculans (blackleg). This project provides tools for producers and regulators to obtain timely information on plant disease prevalence and spread, which will aid efforts to contain and control...