Expert Insights on Crop Management and Market Access
By: Farms.com
Canadian farmers gathered virtually for a crucial webinar titled "2024 Keep a Clean Pre-Harvest Tips and Tools," where industry experts from Pulse Canada and Canola Council of Canada shared essential advice on managing crops effectively.
The webinar, moderated by Jeff English from Pulse Canada, emphasized the importance of market readiness and compliance with international standards for crop protection products.
"Canadian agriculture's success hinges on steady access to international markets," noted Jeff English, highlighting the webinar's focus on maintaining market access through informed on-farm decisions.
The discussion underscored the proper use of glyphosate, noting its application should coincide with specific crop maturity stages to avoid market access issues.
Christa Zusak, Director of Crop Protection and Production for Cereals Canada, elaborated on scouting for diseases and the right timing for applying crop protection products. She stressed, "It's crucial to assess the least mature parts of the field to avoid premature applications that can lead to residue issues."
Ian EPP, an Agronomy Specialist with the Canola Council of Canada, provided detailed guidance on the ideal application timings for glyphosate, especially in canola.
He advised waiting for 50-60% seed color change before application to ensure the chemical does not affect the crop's marketability. "Making sure that the crop is at the correct stage before applying glyphosate is paramount to avoid trade issues," Ian emphasized.
The webinar also covered the implications of excessive moisture on crop maturity, uniformity, and the consequent adjustments necessary for application timings of various products.
Greg Bartley, Director of Crop Protection and Crop Quality for Pulse Canada, pointed out the importance of adhering to label instructions and consulting grain buyers before applying any crop protection product, especially in uncertain weather conditions.
The webinar served as a critical platform for Canadian farmers to receive timely advice on pre-harvest management, ensuring that crops meet both domestic and international market standards.
It highlighted the importance of strategic product use, compliance with market requirements, and proactive field assessments, equipping growers with the knowledge to navigate the challenges of the upcoming harvest season.