Spring Frost: Take a Few Days to Assess Damage

Jun 04, 2013

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

Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.