Science

Biocontrol of canola cutworms

Insecticide application is the most common control option for cutworms in canola but it is very difficult to manage.

Science Edition 2015—Key practice: The key to minimizing damage from cutworms is early detection through frequent field scouting. Proper identification of cutworm species can be important in the protection of beneficial insects and implementation of other biocontrols. Project title, Lead researcher: “Biocontrol of canola cutworms: Identification and attraction of parasitoids,” 2012-15, Barbara Sharanowski, University of Manitoba Grower organization...

Science

Straight combining: environment and timeliness matter more than variety

Science Edition 2015—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,...

Science

Seeding between rows improves stand establishment

Science Edition 2015—Key Practice: Seeding into bare soil between the previous year’s stubble rows will improve canola germination and plant establishment without increasing seed costs. Project Title, Lead Researcher: “Seeding Between the Lines: evaluating the potential of inter-row seeding for canola in southern Alberta,” 2011-14, Ken Coles, Farming Smarter Grower organization funder: ACPC Highly accurate GPS guidance...

Science

Shift in flea beetle species composition

Science Edition 2015—Key practice: Crucifer and striped flea beetles react differently to their environment and to seed treatments. It is important to monitor emerging canola seedlings to know what you’re up against. Project title, Lead researcher: “Potential flea beetles species composition shift in Prairie canola,” 2007-12, Juliana Soroka, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Saskatoon Grower organization funder:...

Science

Potassium deficiency shows first in cereals

Potassium deficiency symptoms will show up in cereals well before it shows up in canola. As you can see in this photo, potassium deficiency in barley looks a lot like leaf diseases. Soil tests and tissue tests may help identify the problem.

Science Edition 2014—Most canola crops grown in Western Canada are not short of potassium because most Prairie soils have sufficient potassium levels. Sandy soils with low clay content are most likely to be short of potassium, especially if those fields have been in forages where a large percentage of the biomass is removed each year. Cereals in...