Improving disease management in canola using planned-limited tillage

Researcher:

B. Irvine, C. Grant, D. Mclaren, D. Derksen

Project Code:

CARP 2000-03

Final Report:

December 29, 2001

Summary:

1. Prespray weed numbers were greater when high disturbance tillage occurred. Lowest residual weed numbers were found when the stubble had been heavy harrowed. 2. Prespray wild oat numbers and buckwheat numbers were lowest when tillage had occurred in the year prior to the current year. Tillage just prior to seeding resulting in the highest weed numbers prior to spraying. 3. Canola disease yields were low and disease yields on pea stubble were similar on flax and pea residue. 4. Soil moisture levels did not differ between high disturbance and low disturbance plots. 5. Canola yields were greater on flax than pea stubble but disease ratings indicated that this would not due to greater sclerotinia levels. While canola yields were similar on pea and flax stubble in 2000 the lack of a pulse effect differs from some previously published work. 6. Rain and wind prevented spraying as early as desired and thus crop yields may have been reduced.