Posts By: Mike Klassen

Factors that increase the risk of sclerotinia development in a field: Sclerotinia present in area previous year Sclerotia needs 10 days of moist soil conditions (above wilting point) in order to develop apothecia High density of crop canopy Infection Sclerotia can overwinter in canola stubble. In wet conditions, and temperatures between 15-25 degrees, sclerotia develop... read more

The days are getting longer and a quick glance at the calendar confirms a somewhat startling fact. We are only 10-11 weeks away from seeding!  Now is the time to make sure you have everything in place for the spring rush.  One item that is often overlooked until it is too late is the seed test.  All the... read more

With the current downward market outlook leading into the 2014 growing season we are seeing a number of cereal and canola acres being converted to pulse acres.  This transition is occurring due to the lower input costs associated with pulse crops, however, it is important to remember not to skimp on the necessary input requirements that... read more

Current pricing for crops and inability to deliver grain has left some growers wondering how they are going to afford their crop inputs this season. This has some producers considering using chem-fallow as a method to reduce costs on their farms. However, it is important to consider all the factors when deciding whether or not... read more

What kind of soil fertility should the average farmer or grower expect to have? Most farmers have land that has been in production for many years. A sizeable portion of that land will have received at best N-P-K and S over those years. But many who make their living in agriculture tell us that in... read more

Best time of year for many farmers is harvest time, since this is when one gets to see all their hard work is paying off. Although the itch to get out into the field to start swathing is there, keep in mind that swathing to early or on hot days can result in shrinkage and... read more