When is Early too Early

Mar 19, 2021

The last couple of days really have felt like spring has already sprung. You heard me say more than once that you should seed spring wheat, barley, oats early and as soon as the ground is ready. But can you actually be too early? The simplest answer is 'probably not', as long as the seed can get through the imbibition phase and the little germ starts actively growing. Once the radicle and shoot appear, the young seedling can handle some freezing temperatures even if the coleoptile hasn't reached the soil surface yet. So if you can prepare a good seedbed and the immediate forecast is warm enough that you can accumulate about 150 to 180 growing degree days in the 4 to 5 days after seeding, and before freezing temperatures return, you can probably seed your first small grains. Even if we're only the middle of March and winter weather might return later this month or in April.

Source : umn.edu

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.