Science

Reseed when fewer than two plants per square foot

While hybrid canola has a high degree of phenotypic plasticity that allows it to compensate for low plant populations, growers need to know when the population is likely too low to compensate for the reduced plant stand. Reseeding is more likely to provide an economic benefit when: the population is below 20 plants per square...
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Science

Mapping a route to clubroot resistance

Twelve molecular markers were identified that will be useful in breeding programs including gene pyramiding for durable clubroot resistance.
Key practice: P. brassicae can rapidly adapt to the selection pressure provided by currently available clubroot-resistant canola varieties. For durable clubroot resistance, it will be important to stack resistance genes and rotate them in clubroot-infested fields. Project title, Lead researcher: “Studies on the genetic and molecular basis for clubroot resistance in canola,” 2010-15, Stephen Strelkov,...
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Science

Straight combining: environment and timeliness matter more than variety

Key practice: This study found that most hybrids could be straight combined successfully with minimal harvest losses when harvested in a timely manner under reasonably average environmental conditions. When making a seed decision, balance pod shatter resistance with other selection factors including yield potential, herbicide system, days to maturity and other agronomic factors. Project title,...
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Science

Aim for uniform stands

Key practice: Uniform stands, with the same number of plants per square foot across the field and with plants at the same growth stage, are proven to increase yields. Key research: Angadi, S.V., Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), et al. “Yield Adjustment by Canola Grown at Different Plant Populations under Semiarid Conditions.” Crop Science 43...
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Science

Phosphorus is often under-applied

Key practice: In the seed row is the best time and place for the first 15 to 20 lb./ac. of phosphate — which is the amount most likely to produce an economic return in the year of application. However, this rate is not enough to match crop removal, which may lead to phosphorus shortages over...
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