Swather in a field.

Diversify rotations to slow resistance

Diversify canola-wheat rotations to save profit margins and slow
 weed resistance, before it’s too late

Scientists warn that a serious threat to sustainable crop production in Canada continues to grow. Surveys indicate the number of western Canadian fields containing Group 1 and Group 2 herbicide-resistant weeds has jumped dramatically. In addition, glyphosate-resistant kochia continues to spread rapidly in the west, while glyphosate-resistant giant ragweed, Canada fleabane and common ragweed carry […] Read more

The middle view on GMO crops

Fresh from the city, Toban Dyck looks at GMOs as a farmer


I don’t know enough about the issue to strip it down to its bones. Few do, it seems. But I do understand what sides, polarities, and knee-jerk reactions are. I’ve lived among those who equate genetically modifying anything to murder — murder committed by someone who hates the earth and loves Monsanto. These people walk […] Read more


Barley seeds in a petri dish.

Three good reasons to test seed lots now

Don’t let last year’s problems become next year’s problems. Test your seed before it’s too late

The 2013 growing season is over, but it will linger well into the next growing season. Why? Because seed quality for next year’s crop is very dependent on conditions experienced in the previous year. The top three reasons to test seed are to know more about germination, vigour and disease levels. “2013 produced what looks […] Read more

The youngest leaves were most affected and were severely yellowed in this barley crop.

Crop Advisor’s Casebook: Yellowed sixth and seventh barley leaves tell a tale

A Crop Advisor's Solution from the April 18, 2011 issue of Grainews

As Rodney drove by his field mid-June last year, he got a nasty shock. His barley crop — progressing well up until that point —was turning yellow. “I’ve never seen this in my 20 years of farming,” Rodney told me. “My barley crop is under a lot of stress,” he said. Rodney farms 1,000 acres […] Read more


Is that pesticide still good?

Farmers often pre-buy pesticides and bulk buying is on the rise. The reasons for doing so makes sense — some want put-off taxes by purchasing before their year-end; others purchase early to take advantage of sales and promotions from chem companies. There can also be money saved by buying pallets, large totes or even bulk […] Read more