Spring Frost: Take a Few Days to Assess Damage

Canola Council of Canada Canola Watch Alert

Frost hit some canola growing regions on the weekend (eastern Saskatchewan and Manitoba). Two key questions arise after a frost:

1. Did the crop survive? (Do I need to reseed?)
2. When can I resume weed control?

How to answer the questions:

Did the crop survive? It can take a few days before you can accurately answer that question. With a light frost of 0 C to -2 C, the risk of crop damage is minimal. With a heavy frost that kills off the cotyledons, it takes a few days before new leaves will start emerging from the growing point between the cotyledons. (Top photo) If no growth occurs within this time, the plant is likely dead. Also, if the stem (hypocotyl) is pinched off or the plant flops over, the plant will likely die. The pinched off or broken stem cannot provide nutrients to the growing point. (Bottom photo) See a video.

Check the whole crop 24-28 hours after a frost and again 3-4 days after a frost to assess the situation. Click here for tips on how to check the field.

View full report..Click here

Source: Alberta Canola Producers Commission