Common ragweed's ability to resist the control efforts of different herbicide groups continues to grow across Ontario. Last winter, University of Guelph weed scientist Dr. Peter Sikkema confirmed the presence of Group 14 resistance in common ragweed, making the broadleaf pest resistant to enzyme inhibitors, including branded weed control products such as Reflex and Blazer,... Read More
Category: Crop Production
Heading out to the field within a few weeks of canola emergence is a great way to fully assess seeder performance, stand establishment and uniformity, and identify early insect pressure. When assessing plant establishment, it's important to distinguish between a seedling that is intended and one that's perhaps a holdover volunteer from a past crop.... Read More
The results of the Canadian Farmer Sentiment Index for May 2023 have revealed a concerning trend of negative sentiment among farmers. From financial performance to government support to crop marketing, there has been a noticeable slide towards pessimism. While the decline in market prices explains much of this sentiment, there are underlying factors that should... Read More
The official announcement this week of a deal to merge Bunge and Viterra raises a series of questions about how farmers, customers, and both companies' operations will be affected by the marriage of the two global agribusinesses under the Bunge name. When it comes to the Canadian market, farmers and politicians are voicing concerns about... Read More
Saving honey bees from ongoing population declines will be the focus of the new Luckevich Pinchin Honey Bee Research Centre, set to open at the University of Guelph in 2025. A groundbreaking ceremony was held this week to kick off construction of the $16-million centre. The new facility is billed as an upgrade to the... Read More
For many in Western Canada, making it through the Victoria Day long weekend often means we are in the clear from Jack Frost. We also know with every anecdotal rule comes an exception. Part of the central Prairies did see low to freezing temps late this season and that's prompted several questions about if there's... Read More
If some Wheat Pete's Word is good, then more is better; or at least that's what the listeners are saying about these somewhat-extended versions of the podcast. Host Peter "Wheat Pete" Johnson isn't known for being short on words, but lucky for all of us, he's using a bunch of them answering your questions this... Read More
Wheat stem sawfly is a sneaky pest, as the damage caused by the larvae happens inside the cereal plant away from scouting eyes and out of reach of insecticides. Regardless of the struggle, this little yellow and black insect does require scouting and careful planning for its management as it is a pest on the... Read More
It's been dry and cool in Ontario for most of this spring and those growing conditions impact everything from planting, to weed control, and even nitrogen application. On this episode of the RealAgriculture Corn School, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs soil fertility specialist Colin Elgie shares nitrogen strategy tips for growers as... Read More
The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) has announced updates to the Official Grain Grading Guide set to take effect with the new crop year. Following consultation with sector stakeholders through the Western Standards Committee and Eastern Standards Committee, the Canadian Grain Commission is implementing grading changes designed to "better meet the needs of the agriculture sector... Read More