June 20, 2008
 

Canada rapeseed crop awaits warm weather and less rain

The development of the rapeseed crops across Canada continued to be slow, although warmer readings during the latter stages of the reporting period were considered beneficial, according to the Rapeseed Council of Canada's crop update for the week ended June 19.

Crop development ranges from early emergence for late seeded and reseeded crops to complete ground cover for some earlier seeded fields. Additional warm weather is required, the report said.

Rain fell across many areas including most of Manitoba, eastern and southern Saskatchewan, southern and south central Alberta and the eastern Peace region. However, other areas including the west and north Peace, north central Alberta and northern and northwestern Saskatchewan received only scattered showers, with many pockets still in need of substantial moisture, the report said.

Stress from excess moisture is occurring in parts of central, eastern and Interlake regions of Manitoba, parts of southern Saskatchewan, south-central Alberta and the eastern Peace region, the CCC said.

Parts of Manitoba and Saskatchewan are seeing soil compaction due to heavy rains on finer textured (clay) soils, the report said. Compaction will often lead to problems with plant emergence or cause symptoms similar to excess moisture because of poor root development and reduced oxygen intake.

Recent rains have delayed crop spraying in many areas. As well, the ample moisture has accelerated weed growth, the CCC said.