Science

New threats: Aster yellows and swede midge

Key result: This study revealed new information about yield losses from aster yellows, tentative economic thresholds for leafhoppers, and the lifecycle patterns and host preference of swede midge. Growers should scout crops for swede midge and leafhoppers and consult with agronomists if either pest or aster yellows are identified. Project title, Principal investigator: “Aster yellows...

Science

One step closer to sclerotinia control

Key result: Sclerotinia stem rot-tolerant varieties are available and efforts continue to improve varietal resistance, in both the public and private sectors. Researchers on this project have identified previously undiscovered genes associated with the plant defense response, providing valuable resources for researchers interested in developing sclerotinia-resistant canola lines. Project title, Principal investigators: “Getting one step...

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

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...

Science

Ideal seeding speed depends on drill, conditions

An even seeding depth across all rows will improve canola uniformity and seed survival, but the seeding speed to achieve this consistency will depend on the drill, soil type and field conditions. It helps to run your own tests.