Ontario corn crop in "good shape"

The report, however, noted that excess moisture on heavy textured soils is causing some uneven development. Also, frequent storms and rainfall created ideal conditions for the appearance of common corn rust. Storm fronts originating in the southern US states and Mexico had deposited common rust spores earlier this year than in past seasons.

Ontario's soy crop conditions were variable, ranging from average to excellent during the reporting period. Some plants were in the RI (beginning bloom) development stage, while others were already in the R2 (full bloom) phase. With the exception of late-seeded crops, fields generally had a full canopy and were dark green in colour.

As for diseases, the report said phytophthera and rhizoctonia root rots are more frequent this year due to excess moisture. Soy cyst nematodes symptoms were also reported in some fields.

Haying operations in the province were slowed by frequent showers that threatened hay quality, the report said. First and second cuts took place whenever favourable weather conditions allowed. In many regions of the province, limited supplies of 'horse quality' first cut hay were available due to rain damage.

Winter cereals in Ontario were being harvested during the reporting period, with average yields expected overall. Quality was described as good and solid test weights and good falling numbers were reported. For the most part, fusarium levels fell within grade, although some grain samples were downgraded due to the presence of sprouts and mildew.

However, the report noted that take-all had appeared in some fields at higher than normal levels, particularly where crop rotations were poor. In severe instances, up to 20 percent of the field showed injury.

Provincially, spring cereal crops were well into the grain fill stage of development. Rust had appeared in oat and wheat fields while melanism was causing significant purpling on the heads of some spring wheat crops.