Crop Production Update
- Harvest is in full swing in southern Saskatchewan. Field pea and lentil crops lead the way for spring-seeded crop harvest completion. Spring-seeded cereal crops are now starting to be combined in south and west areas as well. Check out the Saskatchewan Crop Report for updated information on harvest progress in your region.
Many canola crops around the province continue to be swathed and combining is beginning in some areas.
- Late summer and early fall are the best time to test fields for clubroot as root gals release spores during this time. Free clubroot testing kits are available at Ministry of Agriculture regional offices.
- Harvest is a busy time for producers and there is increased heavy equipment traffic on public roads this time of year. The public is reminded to exercise caution and patience when encountering heavy equipment while driving.
Lab Update
During the previous two weeks the Crop Protection Lab (CPL) received 21 plant disease samples for diagnosis, as well as 71 elm tree samples that are being tested for Dutch Elm Disease (DED). The deadline to submit samples for DED testing this year is Friday, August 30.
The lab has received samples of barley, wheat, oats, canola, lentils, peas, faba bean and chickpea for plant disease testing with diagnosis still ongoing for some of these submissions. The lab is also diagnosing samples collected from the ministry’s 2024 plant disease surveys. Preliminary results suggest that root health issues are affecting many crops, indicating the importance of integrated management strategies. There has been an increase of samples submitted with insect damage observed, namely from aphids. All sample submissions to the CPL should adhere to the sample submission guidelines.
The CPL continues to receive weed seeds to be tested for herbicide resistance. If you suspect herbicide resistance within your weed population, you can submit seeds for testing by January 15, 2025. Submission guidelines can be found on the Herbicide Resistance Testing Samples webpage.
In this issue:
Dutch Elm Disease Continues to Devastate Trees Throughout Areas of the Province: This year has been a record incidence for Dutch Elm Disease in Regina. Find out how and why the Crop Protection Lab tests elm trees for Dutch Elm Disease!
Only You Can Prevent Combine Fires: Combine fires can cause millions of dollars worth of damage or even loss of life; please take a few precautions to keep everyone safe out there.
Perennial Sow-Thistle Biology and Management Strategies: Perennial sow-thistle is a difficult weed to control but knowing its biology helps to determine the best time and way to reduce its impact in your fields.
Root Rots: An Ongoing Obstacle for Saskatchewan Pulse Growers: Are you aware of the types of pathogens that cause root rot disease in pulse crops? Find out more about theses problematic organisms and how to manage them.
Submit Seeds for Herbicide Resistance Testing: Herbicide resistant weeds are a challenge facing most producers. Read more to find out how to submit seeds to the Crop Protection Lab for testing.
Read the Crop Report
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