Ontario Crops in Good Shape: GFO

Aug 09, 2024

The winter wheat harvest in Ontario is nearing completion, according to Thursday’s weekly update from the Grain Farmers of Ontario. Corn and soybeans are progressing well.

Across the province, some corn is approaching the dough stage, about 24-26 days post-silking. This stage is crucial for starch accumulation in the kernels, impacting final yield. Producers continue to scout for pests and diseases in corn, notably tar spot and western bean cutworm.

Soybeans are transitioning from vegetative stages, with podding well underway. Various pests are reported regionally, including bean leaf beetles, aphids, and spider mites, particularly following recent heavy rains.

Concerns about soil compaction have been raised, especially in fields where winter wheat was harvested under less-than-ideal conditions. However, this year’s winter wheat crop itself was a good one, with strong yields and quality noted in most parts of the province.

Source : Syngenta.ca

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.