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James.Holden@Pioneer.com
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22-Feb-07

Beware of SU residues when planting canola this year

The effect of residual SU herbicide on conventional canola (right) compared to a Pioneer Clearfield variety.

Canola growers and advisors need to be aware of the potential for crop damage from herbicide residue carryover from 2006, says Pioneer area manager John DeLyall.

“There is no doubt farmers are keen to reintroduce canola into their farming plans this year, especially as a disease break,” Mr DeLyall says.

He says successive years of cereal-on-cereal paddocks have increased the level of diseases such as crown rot.

“The cereal disease scenario is a potential time bomb and it is critical that canola is on the agenda this year to give a successful break.”

But Mr DeLyall warns farm advisors who are now preparing planting programs with their clients that they need to be aware of the canola options open to them.

“There is a significant level of carryover herbicide residue from previous winter crops and summer fallows. This is higher than normal because of the very dry 2006 season.”

He says much of this residue is group B chemistry, including the popular SU brands Glean and Ally.

“Normally this would see canola deleted from cropping programs in those paddocks but certain Pioneer canola varieties can be planted after these herbicides.”

Mr DeLyall says only the Pioneer varieties 44C73, 45C75 and 46C76 have label approval for planting after Glean and Ally.

“Sowing these designated Clearfield canola varieties can avoid crop injury and disappointing yields.

“And it means a large amount of country can now be brought back into long-term rotational plans allowing farmers to take advantage of a disease break and the current high price of canola oil.”

ENDS