Canola-Best Management Practices
Feb 25, 2021
- Crop Planning:
- Objectives – type of canola system, trait requirements e.g. pod shatter resistance, yield, input costs
- Rotation Management
- 1 in 3 or 1 in 4 years, if possible
- rotate canola system from previous one i.e. extends blackleg resistance
- consider weed density/species, other crops in rotation, volunteer control
- Macro nutrient management
- soil test, include micros
- N to S ratio (5:1)
- consider most efficient placement and seed safety
- Stand Establishment:
- seed treatment – consider options for cutworm and striped flea beetle control
- monitor soil temps for seeding i.e. optimum at 8C.
- calculate optimum seeding rates i.e. use TSW to establish a stand of 7-10 plants/sq ft. Consider seeding speed as well. Ideal seeding depth is 1/2” to 3/4”.
- pre-seed burn-off i.e. add-ins to addresses glyphosate-resistant weeds, specific weed issues such as cleavers and kochia.
- monitor early emergence of crop for signs of cutworm, flea beetles and blackleg. Take appropriate control measures.
- Crop Management:
- target early removal of weeds, incorporating strategies for multiple applications and/or higher rates if applicable.
- continue monitoring for blackleg infection, consider a fungicide application with the herbicide.
- consider a “stress relief” micro blend application at herbicide timing, if crop is under stress.
- monitor crop for diamond-backed moth, Bertha armyworm, and lygus bug infestations, take appropriate control measures.
- monitor for appearance of sclerotinia apothecia and consult risk maps to assist with control decisions.
- monitor crop for appropriate timing for sclerotinia control i.e. before petal fall, 20-30% bloom stage.
- consider the application of boron with the fungicide application to enhance pollination, especially when crop is heat-stressed.
- continue to monitor for lygus, DBM and bertha armyworm (consult moth trap results). Take control measures when economic thresholds are reached.
- Harvest Management:
- monitor crop and consult Seed Colour Change charts.
- monitor possible seedpod scalding which could result in pre-mature swathing.
- consider a pre-harvest dessication, if required.
- evaluate the crop harvestability of your variety as well as herbicide and fungicide performance.
- conduct a post-harvest evaluation for blackleg.
Please visit with your local Shur-Gro sales agronomist for assistance with your canola management plan for 2021.