Download Canola ProduCtion - Canola Council of Canada

Canola Production
TIPS
2
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
CONTENTS
Canola Production Tips
4
Start the Crop off Right
5
Choose a Variety Suited to the Location
6
Soil Fertility and Canola Nutrition
8
Plant to a Firm Seedbed, Otherwise
Seeding Depth can’t be Controlled
12
IPM - What is it?
13
Plan a Weed Control Strategy
15
Flea Beetles
18
Cutworms (Red-backed and Pale Western)
20
Root Maggots
22
Lygus Bugs
23
Cabbage Seed Pod Weevil
25
Diamondback Moth
27
Bertha Armyworm
28
Blackleg
30
Sclerotinia
33
Brown Girdling Root Rot
36
Fusarium Wilt
37
Alternaria Black Spot
38
Clubroot
40
Maximize Harvest Returns
42
Canola Management Extends
Beyond the Crop in the Field
44
Calculation of Seeds/Pound
45
Metric/Imperial Conversions
46
3
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
4
0
Canola Production Tips
for Making the Most from
your Canola Crop
Canola is a management-responsive crop. Statistics Canada reports
the 10-year average yield (1993-2003) in Western Canada as 27
bushels per acre. Yet knowledgeable growers often average 30
bushels or more and many are now regularly producing 40 bushels
per acre. Weather certainly plays a role in canola yields. It is
management that makes the difference between an average and
above average canola crop.
This booklet is designed to help growers concentrate on some of the
key agronomic factors which can affect the profitability of their canola
crops. Agronomy is the science and economics of crop production.
Focussing on one without the other will short-change profitability.
The goal in canola production should be to maximize contribution
margin. The contribution margin is the amount of gross revenue
remaining to pay fixed costs, labour and return on investment, after
deducting variable costs.
In order to maximize canola production, it can’t be stressed too
strongly that growers must know what’s happening in their canola
fields at all times. Canola is not a crop growers can afford to plant in
the spring and then not look at again until late summer; nor is it a
crop which can be monitored from the roadside. Effective canola
management results from hands-on, down-on-your-knees
involvement with the crop.
The topics in this booklet are considerably condensed to provide fast
facts in the field. For complete information on all areas of canola
production, refer to the Canola Growers Manual 2003 edition.
Starting the Crop off Right
Get the crop out of the ground
quickly to reduce seedling exposure
to soil-borne diseases and prevent
weeds from getting a competitive
edge on the crop.
Seed 1/2 to 1" (1.25 to 2.5
cm) deep to moisture.
Seeding too deep depletes
seed energy reserves and
encourages the development
of seedling diseases.
For rapid germination, soil
temperatures of 10°C or
higher are ideal, but the yield
benefits from early seeding
may warrant starting at an
average of 6°C.
Reference: Canola Growers
Manual pp. 504, 505, 706,
1004c-1007c.
8Seedling disease complex
includes a number of fungi
that attack canola seeds,
roots or hypocotyls causing
symptoms ranging from
rotting in the ground, to poor
growth or death of seedlings
after emergence.
5
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
6
0
Use Clean, Certified Seed
Certified seed ensures a true-to-type crop with the performance
characteristics growers expect.
Be sure to include a seed treatment. Fungicide seed treatments
reduce seed-borne blackleg and alternaria black spot, and protect
seedlings against seedling diseases. Including an insecticide with the
treatment can also provide protection against flea beetle damage.
Ask a seed supplier for blackleg test information and weed
seed analysis. Don’t import weeds or disease onto your farm.
Use seed with a germination of 95% or better for maximum
yield potential.
Ask for thousand-kernel weight. Larger seed is typically more
vigorous, and is related to improved plant development and
yield. This number also helps calculate a proper seeding rate
to meet target plant populations (see page 12).
Reference: Canola Growers Manual pp. 804, 805
Choose a Variety Suited to the Location
h Key advantages for each species:
B. napus (Argentine canola):
•higher yield potential;
•higher oil content (1-2%);
•resistance to white rust (staghead);
•better tolerance to brown girdling root rot;
•specific herbicide tolerance; and
•specialty oil traits.
B. rapa (Polish canola):
•earlier maturity; and
•better shattering tolerance allows for straight cutting.
B. juncea canola:
•improved drought tolerance;
•increased heat tolerance; and
•better shattering tolerance allows for straight cutting.
h Review performance data from a number of different sources
before selecting a variety. Choose a variety for both its yield
potential and agronomic characteristics.
h Evaluate the levels of disease resistance of any variety under
consideration.
h Don’t put “all your eggs in one basket”. To manage risk,
try different varieties to compare them to the previous
standard variety.
h Do not depend on variety choice alone to improve yields,
it will lead to disappointment. Current varieties have the
genetic potential to produce a much higher than average
yield. However, they won’t yield to their full potential if
short-changed on the management end.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 208-211
7
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
8
0
Soil Fertility and Canola Nutrition
h Profitable canola production relies heavily on adequate plant
nutrition, which in turn is affected by management of soil fertility.
In addition, the nutritional level of the plant will affect the crop
response to stress factors such as disease and adverse weather.
Balanced, effective fertilizer management not only contributes to
profitable canola yield but also helps to maintain the productivity
of the soil resource.
h Nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and sulphur (S) are the most
limiting nutrients in most soils. Canola yields respond well to
additional levels of these nutrients.
h A 35 bu/ac canola crop will take up the following amounts of the
major nutrients (lb/ac):
N
:
P2O5: K2O: S
100-123
:46-57: 73-89: 17-21
h The above example shows the ratio of nutrients (5 : 2.4 : 4 : 1)
to achieve from the combination of soil available nutrients and
applied fertilizer.
h A proper N:S ratio is essential for canola production. Be sure to
keep this ratio to help maximize yield.
h Boron (B) is a micronutrient that occasionally limits canola
yields in some soils. Boron can be applied to fields that show
deficiency through soil or tissue testing.
Target Yields and
Fertilizer Recommendations
Fertilizing to a target yield is important for maximizing fertility dollars.
Assess spring moisture conditions with a soil moisture probe to help
establish a target yield. Using the depth of moist soil measured with
the moisture probe, estimate the amount of stored water in the soil
from the following table:
Table 1. Water Availability for Different Soil Textures
Soil Texture
Inches of Soil Water per Foot of Moist Soil
(inches)(cm)
Sand
0.751.9
Loamy Sand
1.0
2.5
Sandy Loam
1.25
3.2
Loam
1.53.8
Clay Loam
1.75
Clay
2.05.1
4.4
Reference: Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization (SAFRR)
9
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
10
0
Calculate target yield by using one of the formulas in the following table:
Table 2. Formula for Determining Target Yield on a Soil Test
Soil Zone
Yield Formula
Dry Brown
Y=(WU - 2.5) X 2.0
Brown
Y=(WU - 2.25) X 2.5
Dark Brown
Y=(WU - 2.0) X 3.0
Thin Black
Y=(WU - 1.75) X 3.3
Black
Y=(WU - 1.5) X 3.6
Gray
Y=(WU - 1.25) X 4.0
Reference: SAFRR
Y = Yield (bu/ac)
WU = Water use (inches of stored soil moisture + estimated in season precipitation)
Example: Information taken at soil sampling; loam textured soil in thin black soil zone,
soil moisture probe readings average 2.5' (0.8 m) on 15 probes, estimate 7" (18 cm)
of in-season precipitation would equal a target yield of 29.7 bu/ac.
h
S
ubmit your target yield and your average depth of moist soil
with your soil sample to assist the lab in making more
accurate fertilizer recommendations.
Fertilizer Placement
h
Canola is sensitive to too much fertilizer (especially N) in the
seed row. Canola can tolerate some fertilizer in the seed row,
but moisture conditions and row spacing limit the amount of
fertilizer that can be seed placed.
h
B
e aware of the seedbed utilization of the seeding opener and
apply seed-placed fertilizer accordingly.
Nutrient Deficiencies
hCanola can exhibit a number of nutrient deficiencies
but N and S are the most common.
hDeficiencies can be corrected with minimal yield loss if detected
early and timely rescue treatments are applied. This is most
common with N, S and sometimes B. N can be added until
bolting, S can be added into flowering, and B can be added
up to early flowering.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 900-944
8Canola seedlings
with N deficiency
(right) vs. healthy
seedlings (left).
8Classic symptoms
of a severe sulphur
deficiency. This crop
will have a dramatic
yield reduction.
11
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
12
0
Plant to a Firm Seedbed, Otherwise
Seeding Depth can’t be Controlled
hThe seedbed is firm enough when a work-boot sinks no deeper
than the thickness of its sole.
hBase packing decisions on soil conditions each year. Generally,
fine-textured soils are easily overpacked. These soils can become
so compacted that the supply of oxygen to seedling roots is
limited.
hUnder loose soil conditions, pre-seeding packing is
recommended for moisture conservation or improved seeding
depth control.
hPost-seeding packing may be required behind seeding equipment
that does not have on-row packing.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 706-713.
Seeding Rate Considerations
hGrowing conditions at time of seeding, including the potential for
diseases and insect damage, will affect the plant density. Under
above average conditions, 60 to 80% of canola seed will produce
viable plants. Under average conditions, 40 to 60% of the seed
will produce viable plants.
hThe recommended seeding rate range is five to 10 pounds per acre
(5.6 to 11.2 kg/ha), with the ultimate goal of establishing a
minimum of 7 plants/ft2 (70 plants/m2) to achieve optimum yields.
hSeed size affects seeding rate. The higher the thousand-kernel
weight, the fewer seeds per pound.
hSeeding Rate Calculation (lbs/ac) =
9.6 X plants/ft 2 X Thousand Kernel Weight in grams
% survival
hLower seeding rates often mean fewer plants per square foot,
which take longer to cover the ground. This gives weeds more
time to establish and compete with the crop.
hLow plant densities lead to increased branching, extending the
development period causing delayed maturity and potential green
seed problems.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 804-813
IPM - What is it?
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) uses ALL the tools available for
controlling weeds, diseases and insects. The goal of IPM is to achieve
the best pest management by using all the tools in a method that is
(1) safe, (2) environmentally sound and (3) economically viable.
13
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
14
0
The IPM Toolkit Includes
hPrevention (practices that reduce the severity of the pest problem
or prevent build-up of the pest on the farm).
hMonitoring/forecasting (keeping track of the pests that are present
and the actual size of the problem).
hIntervention (actions that reduce the economic impact of the
problem).
hRecord keeping (maintaining a field record of what happened and
effectiveness of the intervention).
Steps followed in an ipm program
hidentifying the pests;
hunderstanding the life cycle of each pest;
hmonitoring/scouting for pests;
heconomic thresholds;
hprediction/forecasting: tools and techniques;
hpreventive practices;
hinterventions - cultural, biological, genetic, chemical; and
hevaluating the effectiveness/results of the strategy used.
Growers typically use a multitude of IPM techniques. The challenge in
the future will be to pull together the techniques being used and
create better ‘packages.’ Generally speaking, IPM only works to its
fullest potential if a multi-year approach is taken, where plans for a
canola field’s pest program begin at least one year ahead of seeding
the crop.
Plan a Weed Control Strategy
hA good weed control program is essential because
canola is a poor competitor in the seedling stage.
hConsider a pre-seed burn-off treatment to control early emerging
weeds. In-crop weed control in the early stages of crop
development (before the 4-leaf stage) will have greater yield
benefits than later in the season.
hWeed control is equally important in the non-canola years.
A number of weeds, particularly cruciferous weeds (e.g. stinkweed,
shepherd’s purse) can act as hosts for canola
diseases and insects in the non-canola years.
h
Regularly rotate among herbicide groups, not just herbicides.
Herbicide-resistant weed populations are an increasing reality,
so keeping accurate records of all herbicides used is important.
(See table on page 16)
hWalk your fields to identify what weed species are present.
Field monitoring will also alert you to the development
of resistant weeds.
hHave on hand a copy of your provincial government’s
weed control publication and a weed identification guide.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1003a -1020a.
8Severe weed pressure
in the plot on the
right would make
early weed control
more critical.
15
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
16
0
Table 3. Herbicide Groups Based on Mode of Action (for canola)
Herbicide
Group
Registered
Herbicides
Symptoms of
Herbicide Injury
1
Assure II, Centrion,
Freedom Gold*, Fusion,
Hoe-Grass 284,
Muster Gold II*,
Poast Ultra,
Pursuit Ultra*,
Select, Venture
Group 1 herbicides
do not have any soil
residual activity on
canola. Pursuit Ultra
and Muster Gold II would
show symptoms of Group
2 listed below.
Absolute, Freedom Gold*,
Muster, Muster Gold II*,
Odyssey, Pursuit,
Pursuit Ultra*
At low concentrations - slight
purpling and cupping of 1st
through 2nd-3rd set of leaves
which upon recovery produces
small leaves that may show
chlorosis at the base of the
leaf; slow growth. Can be
somewhat asymptomatic and
is similar to other conditions
such as waterlogged soil,
drought, or nutrient
deficiency.
These symptoms are
seen with soil residues.
2
Group 2 herbicides are
the most problematic for
canola due to the high
sensitivity of the plants to
these herbicides. Some
Group 2 herbicides, such
as Refine have been
observed to have no
effect the year after
application, regardless
of soil conditions
contributing to
breakdown, eg. moisture,
pH, or organic matter.
At high concentrations permanent severe purpling
and cupping of 1st-3rd true
leaves which may permanently
damage the main growing
point; a proliferation of callus
like growth at the crown; and
production of thin, weak, side
shoots from the crown area.
2
3
4
8
9
10
11
8Canola plant attempting
to recover from a high
level of Group 2 residue.
Advance 10G, Bonanza,
Edge, Fortress*, Rival, Treflan
No soil residual effect on canola.
Absolute, Eclipse, Lontrel
No soil residual effect on canola.
Avadex BW, Fortress*
No soil residual effect on canola.
Credit, Eclipse, Factor,
Glyfos, Maverick, Renegade,
Roundup Dry, Roundup
Original, Roundup Transorb,
Roundup Weather Max,
Vantage, Vantage Plus
No soil residual effect on canola.
Liberty 150 SN
No soil residual effect on canola.
Amitrol 240
No soil residual effect on canola.
*Some products contain more than one active ingredient and, therefore,
may appear in more than one group. In some instances, both active
ingredients act to kill the same weed using different modes of action.
In these instances, use of tank mixes may slow down the process of
developing weed resistance.
(Refer to a current provincial government weed control publication
for more information on herbicides used in non-canola years.)
17
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
18
0
Insect Pest Monitoring
Flea beetles
Description
hBeetles emerge from over-wintering sites in April and early May
and begin feeding on volunteer canola and weeds. They move
into the canola crop as it emerges. The heaviest feeding can last
from May to late June.
hA second generation of beetles
emerges in early August and
feeds until mid-October.
Critical Time for Action
hAt seeding and through
seedling stage.
Action Required
hSow at a higher seeding rate
if beetle populations were
high the previous fall.
8Crucifer flea beetle. Adult flea
beetles are 1/10" (2.5 mm) long.
hIn areas where flea beetle damage is consistently high or where
previous fall populations were high, use a seed treatment with an
insecticide level that provides extended control.
hMonitor the newly emerged crop daily. Flea beetles chew holes in
the cotyledons, stem or leaves creating a “shot hole” appearance.
This can cause delayed plant development and thinner, weaker
plant stands. In heavy infestations, entire plants may be eaten.
8Striped flea beetle. Adult flea
beetles are 1/10" (2.5 mm) long.
Use a foliar spray
if there is more than
25% damage to
cotyledons and first
true leaves.
Temperatures above
14°C increase both
movement of beetles
throughout a field
and feeding activity.
More than one foliar
insecticide application
may be required.
Reference: Canola
Growers Manual, pp.
1018b-1022b
8Flea beetle damage illustrating
25% “shot-hole”appearance.
19
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
20
0
Cutworms (Red-Backed and Pale Western)
Description
hBoth species overwinter as eggs, laid in the fall by moths that
are night fliers. In April or early May, the eggs hatch and the
young larvae feed mainly at night on weeds and volunteer plants.
hAt maturity, the pale western cutworm larvae are greenish or
slate-grey with a brown head, while red-backed cutworm larvae
are dark grey with two broad, dull, brick red stripes along the
back. They vary in size from 1.2 to 1.5" (30-38 mm).
8Red-backed cutworm larvae.
8Cutworm larvae eat into
stems and usually sever
them at or just above the
soil surface.The plants will
then wilt and die.
Action Required
hScout canola fields and inspect seedlings on a weekly basis from
mid-May to mid-June (seedling to rosette stage), looking for bare
areas and wilting plants.
hSearch the top 2" (5 cm) of soil around notched, wilted, dead or
cut-off plants (weed or crop seedlings) for cutworm larvae. The
damage will often appear on south facing upper slope areas first,
due to warmer soil temperatures, which advance the egg hatch.
The larvae also usually prefer loose, dry soil.
hTo collect cutworm larvae, use a garden trowel and/or a soil sifter.
The small, worm-like larvae curl up or attempt to hide in the
debris.
hUse a registered foliar insecticide when cutworms exceed
3 to 4 per yd2 (m2). Apply insecticide in the evening since
cutworms feed during the night.
hCutworm control may only be necessary in small areas of the field,
when bare patches appear and large numbers of cutworms are
still actively feeding. The abdomen of actively feeding larvae will
contain ingested plant material and hence appear green.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1015b-1016b.
21
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
22
0
Root Maggots
Infestations are more severe after a cool, wet spring. Larvae feed on
the root tunnelling into the taproot, producing brown streaks on the
root. The lower leaves of infested plants often turn yellow with severe
damage resulting in arrested plant growth. Feeding damage may also
promote disease, causing further plant stress. Heavy infestations can
delay blooming and cause severe lodging and yield losses.
Description
hSmall white maggots hatch from eggs laid in June. They begin to
pupate in late July to mid-August.
8Root maggots are found in the roots
and are white, 1/4" (6 mm) in length.
Critical Time for Action
hThere is no registered chemical control,
so cultural control practices must be
used before or at time of seeding.
Action Required
hWhere climatic conditions permit,
plant B.napus canola. It is less
susceptible to root maggots than
B.rapa canola.
hA moderate increase in seeding rates may reduce damage
and yield loss caused by maggot feeding. Heavier canola plant
densities result in smaller basal stems that are less attractive to
egg laying females.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1026b-1028b.
8Root maggots
on canola roots.
8The adult form of the root maggot
is a 1/5" (5 mm) fly.
Lygus Bugs
8Adult lygus bugs range in colour from
pale green to reddish brown to black,
and from fairly uniform colour to
mottled. They have a distinct
triangular or V-shaped marking on
their backs. Young nymphs resemble
the adults without wings.
23
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
24
0
Description
hLygus bugs enter canola fields at the bud stage.
hHot weather increases lygus bug populations.
hAdults and nymphs pierce and suck juices from the pods, stems
and blossoms. This feeding causes blossoms to abort and young
pods to drop from the plants. Feeding on the older pods causes
the seed to become shrivelled. The pods may also become
deformed.
hYield losses due to lygus bugs have been estimate as high
as 15 to 20%.
Action Required
hWhen making the decision to apply a foliar insecticide it is
important to consider the stage of the crop, and the stage
and size of the lygus bugs.
hConsider application of a registered foliar insecticide
if numbers exceed threshold levels.
hThresholds are approximately 15 lygus per 10 sweeps at
flowering, increasing to 20 per 10 sweeps as the crop
approaches pod ripening.
Reference Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1022b-1025b
Cabbage Seed Pod Weevil
Description
hAdult cabbage seed pod weevils are typically 1/10 to 1/6" (3-4 mm)
long with an oval, ash grey to black body and a strongly curved snout.
hLarvae are white and grub-like without legs
or eyes and are about 1/12" (2 mm) long.
hAdults feed on flower buds causing bud blasting
while larvae eat developing seeds, causing yield loss.
Pods are susceptible to disease and shattering.
8Adult cabbage seed pod weevils
can feed on developing canola
buds causing bud blasting.
They also deposit eggs into
small developing pods.
8The larvae that hatch from these
eggs can consume about five
canola seeds before chewing an
exit hole and dropping to the
ground to pupate.
25
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
26
0
Life Cycle
hOne generation per year.
hAdults over-winter under litter and in light soils becoming active
in spring, flying at temperatures above 15°C and feeding on
early crucifer crops or weeds in spring before laying eggs.
hEach female lays 60 to 70 eggs that hatch within five to 30 days,
depending on temperature. The larvae spend three to four weeks
in the pod, each consuming five to seven canola seeds.
hPopulation and activity of adult weevils peak at full bloom and
continues into the early pod-set period.
hWhen feeding is completed, the larva chews a round exit hole
at the base of the pod and drops to the ground to pupate.
New adults emerge within two to four weeks and feed on
green stem and pod material but do little damage.
Action Required
hMonitor field using a sweep net; start sampling at early bud stage.
hIf control is required, the best time to spray is when crops are in
10 to 20% flower to avoid egg laying in newly formed pods.
hConsider a foliar insecticide application when numbers
reach 30 to 40 weevils per 10 sweeps.
Diamondback Moth
Description
hEggs are pale green or yellow, laid singly or in twos or threes on
both sides of leaves. Tiny, green larvae hatch about mid-June and
“mine” the leaves by entering the leaf and feeding on internal
tissue. They emerge from the leaf in about a week and feed for
10 to 21 days on the outer leaf tissue. When disturbed, larvae
will wiggle vigorously or hang from slender threads.
hIt takes about 32 days to develop from egg to adult, so scout
continuously during July and early August. There can be up to
three generations per growing season, with the second typically
causing the most damage.
8Moths can arrive from the
United States in early May.
8Larvae are up to 1/3" (8 mm) long,
smooth pale yellow-green worms.
8The larvae pupate in white lacework
cocoons anywhere on the plant.
27
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
28
0
Action Required
hMonitor fields regularly from bud stage through pod set.
hThe economic threshold for diamondback moths is
10 to 15/ft2 (100 to 150 larvae/m2) at early flowering increasing
to 20 to 30/ft2 (200 to 300 larvae/m2) during podding. If leaves
are beginning to turn yellow and dry up, forcing the larvae to
feed on pods, consider using a foliar insecticide at the lower end
of the threshold range.
hContinue monitoring after foliar insecticide application to ensure
that numbers remain below thresholds.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1016b-1018b.
Bertha Armyworm
Description
hAdult moths emerge from over-wintering pupae in mid-June
to mid-July. Eggs are laid soon after moths emerge.
hLarvae or worms emerge in about one
week and pass through six growth stages
or instars. There is only one generation
of bertha armyworms per year.
8The night-flying bertha armyworm moths are
black and olive with whitish markings and
a silvery fringe on each wing.
Action Required
hStart field monitoring for
larvae in mid to late July.
hBertha armyworm should
be controlled before the
insect reaches its most
destructive stage of fifth
and sixth instar in August.
hPheromone traps are used
8 Young
larvae are
1/10"
(17mm)
long, pale
green with
a pale
yellowish
stripe on each side. Mature worms are
1 1/2 to 2" (4.4-5.1 cm), velvety black
to brown with a broad orange stripe
along each side and a light brown head.
to monitor the moth flight
from mid June through
July and develop risk maps.
Higher moth counts during the flight period indicate greater risk of
larval damage.
hThe rate of larvae growth and amount of leaf tissue eaten increases in
warmer weather, so monitor fields often.
hUse economic threshold charts available in the Canola Growers
Manual or from provincial extension offices to determine cost
effectiveness of spraying. The threshold will vary from 1-3 larvae/ft2
(11 to 34 larvae/m2). Remember, with higher priced canola, it takes
fewer larvae to reach an economic threshold.
hThe worms are easily dislodged from canola plants, so do the counts
in the field. The most effective method is to pace off a square metre,
then vigorously shake the plants within the boundary and count fallen
larvae on the soil surface and within leaf litter. Sprinkling baby powder
or flour on the ground beforehand will make the larvae easier to see.
hThe best time to spray is in the cool of early morning or evening
when the larvae are up in the plants feeding.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1008b-1011b.
29
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
30
0
Disease Management
Blackleg
Before Planting
hDetermine the potential for blackleg based on the amount of
disease in the area and records of disease levels in fields. Airborne
blackleg spores can travel three to five miles.
hWalk fields to see how well previous years’ infected canola stubble
has decomposed. Stubble is a host for the disease organism.
hChoose an acceptable rotation length, keeping in mind that in areas
of high blackleg risk, rotations less than one in four years increase
the potential for disease incidence. Tight rotations with resistant
varieties also increase selection pressure for resistant strains.
hSelect varieties with appropriate resistance levels based on an
assessment of the disease potential. It is very risky to grow
B.rapa or susceptible B.napus varieties on fields which have
had severe blackleg in the last six years.
At Seeding
hPlant only seed treated with a recommended fungicide.
Seed treatment will control seed-borne blackleg but will not prevent
seedling infection caused by spores released from diseased stubble.
hIn areas where blackleg is not a problem, have the seed tested prior
to planting and plant only clean seed.
In Crop
hIn conjunction with varieties that have some resistance, a registered
foliar fungicide can be applied as a preventative measure.
hFoliar fungicide should be applied at the rosette stage, prior
to bolting. Generally at this stage there is no evidence of the
disease. The fungicide delays the onset of damaging cankers,
allowing the canola pods to fill more completely.
hThe best time to assess the level of blackleg in a field (for future
reference) is from after the crop is blooming until swathing.
Stem lesions are white to pale grey with a distinctive dark border.
Hard, black bodies slightly larger than a pinpoint may appear within
these lesions. Pods may ripen and split prematurely in severe cases.
At Harvest
hUsing a straw chopper and chaff
spreader to evenly distribute
infected crop residue and/or
incorporating the trash will
increase the rate of decomposition
of infected stubble.
After Harvest
hTo assess the potential for blackleg
in following years, walk fields at
swathing time to check canola
plants or stubble for evidence of
blackleg lesions or cankers.
8Example of blackleg
stem lesion.
31
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
32
0
hChecking fields the following spring may not give as accurate a
picture of disease levels. A number of other organisms, including
the non-virulent form of blackleg, can produce blackleg-like
symptoms on the stubble in the late fall and early spring and can
give the impression that blackleg is more severe than in reality.
General Tips
hIn non-canola years, control volunteer canola, as it will act as a
host for the disease.
hHaving a one-in-four-year rotation will help control blackleg.
Shorter rotations are not a guarantee that the disease will cause
substantial yield loss, but it certainly can increase the risk, as well
as the selection pressure for the fungus to overcome varietal
resistance. If growers shorten the rotation, it is essential to take
every management precaution to minimize disease potential.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1008c-1012c
8Blackleg leaf lesion.
Sclerotinia
At Seeding
hUse a seed source
free of sclerotinia.
In Crop
hSclerotinia requires
moist, warm conditions
for at least 10 days in
order to germinate and
form apothecia.
8Sclerotia are small, black, round
or oval bodies up to 3/4" (2 cm)
long that develop in infected
stems. They can survive in the soil
up to five years or more.
hSpores produced by the
apothecia cannot infect
leaves or stems directly. They first need dead canola petals or
other organic material as a food source to germinate, grow and
penetrate the plant. In order to infect canola plants, the spores
need rainfall or heavy dews that keep stems and leaves wet for
two to three days. Spores can remain alive for up to 21 days after
release from the apothecia.
hIn the 10-day period before
flowering, walk through the
crop, checking for signs of
apothecia.
8Apothecia are mushroom-like
bodies, which produce the
infectious sclerotinia spores.
33
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
34
0
hUse the sclerotinia stem rot checklist to indicate whether fungicide
application should be considered.
hA petal test kit is also available to indicate the average percentage
of infected flower petals in the canola crop and, in turn, the risk of
sclerotinia developing.
hOptimum time for fungicide application is at the 20 to 50%
bloom stage. Depending on weather conditions, it takes three to
six days to move from first flower to 20% bloom.
Table 4. Identification of Flowering Stages of Canola
Flowering Stage
B. napus Canola
B. rapa Canola
(Flowers - main Stem)
(Flowers - main Stem)
10%
10
6 to 7
20%
14 to 16
10 to 12
30%
20
14 to 16
At Harvest
hSclerotinia can progress rapidly in wet, compacted swaths. The
heavier and more compact the swath, the greater the likelihood
for sclerotinia to rot the swath before it can be combined. As much
as one-third of the crop can be lost to sclerotinia in the swath.
8Sclerotinia infected plants
turn straw coloured as they
prematurely ripen.
To reduce or avoid further disease development in the swath,
in fields with sclerotinia infection:
h straight
combine (B.rapa canola only);
h avoid
compacting the swaths;
h leave
tall stubble for better drying;
h do
not swath if rain is in the immediate forecast; and
h do
not swath immature stands (less than 30% of the seed ripened).
General Tips
hA four-year rotation including non-host crops may help reduce the
amount of sclerotinia in the soil. However, crops may still be
infected from airborne spores produced in nearby fields.
hDon’t follow or precede canola in a rotation with beans,
sunflowers, mustard, pulse crops, alfalfa, clover or potatoes as
they can act as hosts for the disease. Control Canada thistle as it is
also a host for the disease.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1012c-1019c
35
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
36
0
Brown Girdling Root Rot
The soil-borne fungi that cause the disease occur in all soil types
and textures, primarily in the Peace River region. There is no
chemical control.
Before Planting
hThe disease appears to be more severe when canola follows
canola, clover or fescue, than when canola follows summerfallow.
However, brown girdling root rot can also occur in new breaking
and in fields not previously planted to canola.
At Seeding
hIf weather conditions
permit, plant B.napus
varieties, as they are less
susceptible to the disease.
hOptimum, balanced crop
fertility can reduce the
impact of the disease.
In Crop
8Early stages of brown
girdling root rot.
appear on the taproot 3"
(7.6 cm) or more below
the soil surface after flowering. The lesions eventually girdle the
root. The amount of yield loss depends on how much root is lost
to girdling. The disease is more prevalent under moist conditions.
hLight brown lesions usually
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1007c-1008c
8Advanced stage of brown girdling
root rot; taproot is completely
severed. Swathed plants tend to
pull out of the ground increasing
pod shattering problems and
slowing harvest.
Fusarium Wilt
i
s
Fusarium wilt, a soil-borne fungal
disease of canola, has been observed
throughout western Canada. It is
caused by Fusarium oxysporum, which
different from the species that cause
fusarium head blight in cereal crops.
Before Planting
hSelect varieties with good tolerance to fusarium wilt, especially in
areas where the disease has been previously identified.
In Crop
hScout fields for the following symptoms:
hYellow or reddish-brown streaks, often occurring only on one side
of the stem or on the branches. Some plants may have an orange
discoloration at the base of the stem. Plants with minor infection
may also ripen prematurely and tend to shatter.
37
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
38
0
hChlorosis and necrosis of stems, vascular discoloration, poor seed
set and premature desiccation.
hPremature death in severely infected plants. Stems and/or
branches turn brown, but plants remain upright with roots intact.
No visible lesions are visible on stems or roots. Plants are often
stunted and have small pods with no seeds, resulting in
significantly reduced yield.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1025c-1026c
Alternaria Black Spot
At Seeding
hPlant seed treated with a recommended fungicide. This will help
control infection transmitted from the seed to seedlings and
reduces seed rot.
8Under moist conditions, leaves will develop grey
spots. Under dry conditions, spots may be grey
with purplish or black borders or entirely black.
Severely infected leaves wither and drop.
8Pods may show
sunken, dark
brown to black
circular lesions.
hB. rapa varieties are more susceptible to alternaria than B. napus
varieties.
hEarly planting of B. napus canola may help to reduce the risk of
alternaria.
In Crop
hFoliar fungicide application at 95% bloom can provide economical
control of this disease.
hMonitoring fields will give an indication of disease levels for future
field management.
At Harvest
hAlternaria acts as a desiccant drying the pods and causing
them to split open. Where symptoms of alternaria are visible,
early swathing can help reduce yield losses.
hIf alternaria is visible in B. rapa canola, do not straight combine the
crop.
After Harvest
hThe fungus survives on infected crop residue and produces spores
that infect the new crop, so growers may consider incorporating
diseased stubble.
General Tips
hIn non-canola years, control weeds such as mustard, flixweed,
stinkweed and volunteer canola as they act as hosts for the disease.
hAlternaria is present in most canola fields but only causes
significant yield loss when high humidity and warm temperature
combine to encourage its rapid development at pod set.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1019c-1023c.
39
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
40
0
Clubroot
Clubroot is a serious soil-borne fungal disease in cabbage, cauliflower
and rutabaga crops, chiefly in eastern Canada and the coastal regions
of British Columbia. It was identified in canola fields near Edmonton,
Alberta in 2003.
Before Planting
hFields become infested mainly by the transplanting of soil via
cultivation equipment and by seedling transplants.
hResting spores of the fungus can survive in soil for many years.
In the presence of susceptible roots, the spores germinate and
release tiny organisms that swim in free water to the surface of the
rootlets, penetrate and form a fungal colony inside the root cells.
hUse long rotations (one in four years). It may not prevent the
introduction of the disease, but it will restrict disease development
and severity within the field.
hDo not move cultivating equipment from infested to non-infested
areas without thoroughly cleaning the equipment. Rinse with a
weak disinfectant (1 to 2% household bleach).
At Seeding
hAvoid common, untreated seed (all crops) because earth-tag
(soil particles) on seed can be a source for introducing the
disease to new areas.
In Crop
hScout canola fields regularly for wilting, stunting or yellowing or
premature ripening, and identify the cause.
hGalls appear on the roots of infected plants, ranging from tiny
nodules to large, club-shaped outgrowths. They are easiest to find
at swathing.
hSymptoms of clubroot will often be more severe on acidic soils,
but results with liming have been unreliable and costly.
8Very severe clubroot
on canola.
8Moderately infected
canola root.
After Harvest
hAvoid the use of bales and manure from infected areas, as the
spores can survive through the digestive systems of livestock.
Reference: Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development
41
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
42
0
Maximizing Harvest Returns
Assessing Seed
Colour Change
h
In hot, dry weather, canola
can go from 10 to 50% seed
colour change in just days.
h
Seed colour change does
not mean the entire seed has
changed colour. Any
indications of colour change
(yellow or brown) anywhere on
the seed should be counted as
seed colour change.
8Eleven of the 20 seeds in
this pod have colour change.
h
Seed colour change should
be assessed by actually
opening pods on the main stem, starting at the bottom.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1101-1103
Timing Swathing
hThe optimum time to swath canola and maximize yield potential
is when 50 to 60% of the seeds on the main stem have changed
colour. Oil content, grade and seed size will often benefit as well.
hTo reduce harvest losses, avoid swathing beyond optimum
seed colour change.
h
Seed colour can change an average of 3 to 5% per day at
temperatures of 22 to 25°C. This is particularly important when
large acreages are at the same maturity. Growers may have to start
swathing at 30% seed colour change to manage the risk of over
ripening.
hEarlier swathing should be avoided in hot dry conditions.
h
Swathing prior to a frost will only be beneficial if sufficient
time is allowed for the swath to dry down.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1101-1105
When to Combine
hCheck both seed moisture content
and green seed before combining.
hCanola requires at least 20%
moisture in the seed for curing to
take place. Under hot, dry or windy
conditions, the crop may dry down
to acceptable moisture content
before the seed has cured and
cleared the chlorophyll.
hLetting swaths sit through several
heavy dews or showers will help clear
the chlorophyll. This process may
take up to 14 days or longer.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, p. 1105
43
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
44
0
Straight Combining
h
Polish canola can be straight-combined. Check information from
Canola Council of Canada Canola Production Centre trials, the
Canol@Grow section on the Canola Council’s website, and other
publications before considering straight combining. Straight
combining is not generally recommended for B. napus canola due
to the high risk of pod shattering.
h
The crop canopy should be well knitted and slightly lodged to
reduce the chance of pod shattering and pod drop.
h
As in a swathed crop, always test for green seed and moisture
content before combining.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, p. 1105
Canola Management Extends
Beyond the Crop in the Field
h
For safe, long-term storage, canola should be at or below 9%
moisture and cooler than 15°C. The high oil content of canola seed
prevents it from absorbing as much moisture as cereal grains,
which is why a closer watch must be kept on stored canola.
h
Canola can continue to respire (breathe) for up to six weeks after
harvest before becoming dormant. Bins should be monitored
regularly during this period to avoid heating.
h
The effect of changing temperatures on bin walls in both fall and
spring causes moisture to concentrate in certain areas of the bin,
which can lead to spoilage and heating. Again, at these times, the
temperature of stored canola should be monitored regularly.
hConsider aeration or other forms of conditioning
when storing canola.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1201-1209
Marketing Considerations
The ultimate speculation is holding unpriced canola
in the bin and then failing to monitor its condition.
There are a number of marketing and pricing options available.
These include:
h
production contacts;
h
deferred delivery contracts;
h
basis contracts;
h
deferred pricing contracts;
h
hedging through a futures or options contract; and
h
price averaging through selling a portion of the crop every few
weeks or every month.
h
There is a cost and risk to holding unpriced canola in the bin,
waiting for higher prices: risk of seed quality deterioration, lost
opportunity costs, interest costs associated with holding the
canola, and the risk of price declines.
Reference: Canola Growers Manual, pp. 1402-1421
Calculation of Seeds/Pound
Seeds/pound
=
454
Thousand Kernel
Weight in Grams
x 1000
45
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
46
0
Metric/Imperial Conversions
Symbols
LengthWeight
10 mm = 1 cm
1000 mg = 1 g
100 cm = 1 m
1000 g = 1 kg
1000 m = 1 km
1000 kg = 1 t
AreaVolume
10,000 m2=1 ha
1000 ml = 1 L
1000 L = 1 m3
Relationship between grade, Per Cent Green
Seed and Chlorophyll in Parts Per Million*
CGC Grade
Per Cent Green Seed
Chlorophyll PPM
No. 1 Canada
<2
25
No. 2 Canada
2 to 6
26 to 45
No. 3 Canada
6 to 20
46 to 100
>20
>100
Sample
*Reference: Daun, J.K. and Symons, S. (2000) How green is green?
Sampling and perception in assessing green seeds and chlorophyll in canola.
JAOCS, Vol 77, n.11
Approximate Relationships
LengthVolume
2.54 cm = 1 in
28.41 ml = 1 fluid oz
1 m = 39.40 in
29.57 ml = 1 fluid oz (U.S)
1 m = 3.28 ft
1 L = 1.76 pints
1 m = 1.09 yd
1 L = 0.88 quart
1 km = 0.62 mile
4.55 L = 1 gal (Imperial)
Canola Bulk Density
50 lb/bushel = 38.94 lb/ ft3
3.79 L = 1 gal (U.S.)
1 m3= 35.71 ft3
Weight
1 m3= 1.30 yd3
28.35 g = 1 oz 1 bushel = 1.284 ft3 = 36.367 L
1 kg = 2.20 lbArea
1 tonne = 2204 lb
1 ha = 2.47 acres
1 tonne = 1.10 ton
1 acre = 43,560 ft2
Pressure
Power
1 psi (lb/in2 ) = 6.90 kPa
1 hp = 0.746 kW
47
0
CANOLA PRODUCTION TIPS
48
0
CROP
Canola, Mustard
1 tonne = 44.1 bushels
Wheat, Peas, Beans, Clover
1 tonne = 36.7 bushels
Corn, Flax, Rye
1 tonne = 39.4 bushels
Buckwheat, Barley
1 tonne = 45.9 bushels
Oats
1 tonne = 64.8 bushels
1 bushel = 22.7 kilograms
1 bushel = 27.2 kilograms
1 bushel = 25.4 kilograms
1 bushel = 21.8 kilograms
1 bushel = 15.4 kilograms
For more information on canola production, contact your local
Canola Council of Canada regional agronomist. Please check the
Canola Council of Canada website at www.canolacouncil.org
or phone 204-982-2100.
Images for this project provided by:
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Kelly Turkington), Alberta Agriculture
Food & Rural Development (Valerie Sowiak), Alberta Research Council Vegreville (Sandi Checkle), Beth Hoar, Canola Council of Canada
(Agronomists), Prairie Pest Management (Roy Ellis), and Syngenta Crop
Protection Canada Inc. (Rick Istead).
Business Cards
0
0