Canola System Rotation Now More Important than Ever

Jan 10, 2013

Canola Growers Can Maximize Profits by Rotating Canola Systems

Canola is one of Canada’s most consistent and highest profit generating crops, so it’s probably no surprise given its high market value that some growers are using tight canola rotations in order to capitalize on the crop’s profitability.

Barry Chappell, a producer from Hamiota, Manitoba estimates that less than 50% of growers actually rotate their canola systems to maximize their yields.

Understanding the value of system rotation is important. Chappell provides some insight into some of those benefits. The first thing to know is that rotating canola systems can help boost yield, improve weed control and assist with better disease and weed resistance management. Another value for the grower is that by rotating systems it allows for herbicide groups with different modes of action – this can be a real benefit in volunteer control.

The Canola Council of Canada also encourages rotating canola systems. In Canola Watch it says, “Growers who choose to seed canola on canola should rotate herbicide-tolerance systems on that field. For example, if they seeded Roundup Ready canola two years ago, this year use a different system on that field. This provides an important opportunity for post-emergent volunteer control, especially if growers missed an opportunity to apply herbicide before seeding.”

It’s essential that growers adopt best practices in order to mitigate risk by rotating their canola systems. Rotating to another canola variety or growing canola on a three year rotation cycle are growers best options to help combat disease and to maximize yield.

More information on best practices can be found on the Canola Council of Canada’s website.

Video: Early Fall Colors | Scenic Ontario Road Trip!

All adventures must come to an end, but not without one more journey! Join The Wandering Shepherds as we say farewell to our cozy Calabogie cottage and take the scenic road trip home to Ewetopia Farms. Our first stop was a breathtaking hydroelectric generating station, framed by cliffs, rushing water, and brilliant fall leaves that seemed to have changed overnight. From there, we meandered along winding backroads through lakes and hills, soaking in the spectacular autumn scenery. This year, the colors seemed to arrive earlier than usual—perhaps due to the summer’s drought? Whatever the reason, it was an unforgettable display of Ontario’s fall beauty. Finally, our holiday drew to a close as we pulled back into Ewetopia Farms, ready to return to the sheep and our daily vlogs. But this trip reminded us how important it is to pause, explore, and appreciate the simple beauty around us.