Spraying for cutworms continues in parts of Saskatchewan and Alberta. Reports of cutworms are most common in fields that were cultivated last summer (summer fallow or pasture and hay land that was renovated) and had loose soil present for the adults to lay eggs. Cutworms may be at an advanced stage of development and close to pupation. When larvae are …
Cutworm Spraying? Spend Money Wisely
Numerous beneficial insects, including both predatory ground beetles and parasitic wasps and flies are often effective in suppressing cutworm populations below damaging levels. Therefore, unnecessary use of insecticides should be avoided. The list of products registered for control of cutworms in canola is limited compared to those for flea beetle control, leading to some confusion about which products are appropriate. …
Cabbage Seedpod Weevil
Cabbage seedpod weevil has been seen in canola fields throughout southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan as crops have started to bolt, with some fields in early flower. The proper way to sample for cabbage seedpod weevil adults is with a sweep net. Begin sampling when the crop first enters the bud stage and continue through the flowering period. For more …
Other Insects Appearing
There were a couple of reports of red turnip beetle infestations in northwest Manitoba and in the southern Peace region of Alberta. This insect moves into a field by migrating from a neighboring field that was in canola last year. As a result, control can usually be achieved with perimeter spraying. More information on this insect is available at: http://www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Default.aspx?DN=4cc8d2a0-9fb3-4459-8e63-e306abfb9530 …
Crops and Weeds – How to Spray Variable Stages
Crop growth and development is variable within many fields in western Canada. A common question being asked is when is the best time to spray? Each field should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Keep in mind a few important points: The first step is to scout. Scout the crop for signs of stress (moisture) and the weeds to determine …
Recruiting Disease Survey Participants
Faye Dokken, Provincial Specialist – Plant Diseases with Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is looking for cooperators to participate in a canola disease survey this summer. Representatives from the Ministry would like permission to enter canola fields and collect a soil sample (for clubroot screening). While at the field, representatives will also take note of other canola diseases that may be …
Flea Beetles – Stem Feeding Noticed
Flea beetle spraying was reported in many locations across the Prairies. Stem feeding was also noticed in a number of areas. Stem feeding is not a concern if small pitting is occurring. However, if significant stem feeding is occurring (impeding flow of water and nutrients in the stem or stems being clipped off), then a foliar insecticide may be required. …
Flea Beetles – Be Vigilant with Thin Stands
It is crucial that fields are scouted thoroughly and often. A heavy infestation on a stressed or thin stand can do significant damage in 24 to 72 hours. Be prepared in case additional control measures are required. The economic threshold for flea beetle control is when 25% or more of the cotyledons are damaged. However, if frost has already damaged …
Still Battling Mother Nature
Still Battling Mother Nature Excess moisture continues to impede seeding in parts of the northern Interlake Region of Manitoba where it is estimated that only about 25% of the crop is planted. Some seeding and re-seeding also continues in parts of the northwest, central and eastern regions. In the Red River Valley, it is now estimated that as little as …
Crop Still Playing Catch-Up
Environmental stresses continue to be the dominant and common threat to canola production in western Canada this week. Canola seeding is not yet finished in parts of Manitoba and some re-seeding due to frost has occurred in all provinces. Multiple frosts have affected crop staging with a range of plant growth from cotyledon to 4-leaf in the same field. It …