Residue management is a significant challenge for producers on a year-to-year basis. Uneven and poorly distributed residues can lead to many complications for producers, such as uneven seed depth the following spring, blocked drill openers, and uneven plant stands and emergence. Because Western Canadian producers often seasonally rotate wheat and canola crops, it is important to have a better understanding of how wheat residue management can affect the emergence of canola in a rotation. The objective of this research was to analyze canola emergence and yield based on different wheat residue harvest management strategies.
Read MoreWheat is a staple crop in many Canadian prairie crop rotations. Yet as years pass, net profitability of this crop has declined despite significant breeding improvements in yield. Unfortunately, new or updated agronomic research in wheat has been minimal. However, if management practices are tailored to individual market classes and/or varieties it may be the key to enhancing the profitability of wheat.
Read MoreAgricultural drought is well recognized as inadequate moisture for crop production. Additionally, sporadic moisture deficits that escape public attention also impact crop economics. Statistics Canada noted in one of the many drought years in Saskatchewan and Alberta: “Dry conditions during the growing phase in much of Canada's wheat belt contributed to lower crop yields.” Heat and drought exacerbate the stress conditions and affect many biochemical, biophysical and developmental aspects in plants. Every degree Celsius above the optimal temperature can cause as much as 6% yield reduction in wheat. Drought and heat impact crop productivity more than all other biotic and abiotic stresses combined.
Read MoreProducers are always evaluating their crop sequences and rotations seeking to maximize returns without jeopardizing future income through poor agronomic practices. Producers who are growing or want to grow special crops like canaryseed, coriander, hemp or quinoa lack this valuable information. The objectives of this research were to determine the best fit of special crops into crop sequences and to determine if optimum crop sequences change depending on the environment.
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