Key result: The current system for monitoring potential bertha armyworm outbreaks is based on a pheromone trap network developed in the 1970s (Steck et al. 1979) and improved in the 1980s (Struble et al. 1984). This study tested the efficiency of this system in the context of current canola production and determined the monitoring and...
Read More Key result: The study found that seed treatment can reduce leafhopper feeding and therefore suppress aster yellows (AY). It also produced a five-point rating scale to score canola plants for AY damage and help predict yield loss. Project title, Principal investigators: “Seed treatments as an alternative method of controlling leafhoppers and aster yellows disease in...
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Key Result: Sclerotinia stem rot, caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is commonly managed by routine application of fungicides, typically without any indication of disease risk. Through this study, a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)-based assay was developed to measure S. sclerotiorum DNA in canola petals, enabling rapid and accurate estimates of infestation levels when timely fungicide...
Read More 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...
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Key result: A pest complex of economically significant cutworm species can be found on the Prairies, and outbreaks seem to be occurring with greater frequency. This study has resulted in a DNA protocol for quick, accurate identification of cutworm species; identification of natural enemies and evaluation of their ability to develop on different cutworm species;...
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