Emergence Challenges

  1. Emergence Challenges

Canola seeding is virtually complete in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Where soil moisture is adequate for germination, cool temperatures and late-spring frosts are stalling canola growth and development. Emerged fields range from the cotyledon to 2- or 3-leaf stage. Where conditions are dry (south and west-central SK and southeast-central Alberta), some canola is stranded in dry soil and will require rainfall to stimulate germination.

In Manitoba, seeding is still ongoing in parts of the Northwest (Gilbert Plains and Grandview areas) and Central Regions (Manitou, Darlingford, Gladstone areas). About 30% of the early seeded canola has emerged in these regions. Seeding is nearing completion in the Southwest and about 50% of the canola has emerged. Excess moisture continues to challenge producers in the Eastern and Interlake Regions. Seeding is variable (5 to 100% complete) and has been focused on fields that will support equipment and the crops with the earliest seeding deadlines (e.g. June 1 for soybeans) rather than the typical seeding sequence. There are reports of broadcast seeding of canola in the Eastern and Interlake Regions.

The latest crop report from Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is available at:
http://www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/crprpt090526
The latest crop report from Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development is available at:
http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/sdd4191#2009
Maps of current moisture conditions in western Canada from PFRA are available at:
http://www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/drought/prpay09_e.htm
http://www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/drought/prpgs09_e.htm