Corteva Agriscience has launched a new herbicide, Enlist 1, a standalone version of its new 2,4-D choline product. The product is registered for use on Enlist E3 soybeans and Enlist corn. Why it matters: Diverse herbicide options help with the control of the growing number of herbicide-resistant weeds. Enlist 1 is a stand-alone version of […] Read more
New Enlist product contains only 2,4-D
The product will enable more flexible tank-mixing options
Does your milker need a robot room or not?
An enclosed room around a milking robot is no longer a regulatory requirement
Ontario dairy producers are still constructing robot rooms around their automated milking equipment, even though it’s no longer a requirement. Revisions to the National Automatic Milking Systems Guidelines, put together by the Canadian government and dairy industry representatives in 2020, no longer necessitates milking equipment areas, such as stationary automated milking systems, to have positive […] Read more
Working soils deeper moves carbon lower
Research shows carbon levels are relatively stable over 70 years, but deeper in the soil
Soil carbon concentration has decreased since the 1950s but the plow layer has deepened and diluted the carbon content. This makes it difficult to accurately compare carbon concentrations as a dilution factor must be considered, say researchers at the University of Guelph. “That is not the only factor contributing to that decrease in carbon concentration […] Read more
Managing footrot needs a whole-flock effort
Isolation of infected animals is key to managing hoof health issues
Footrot continues to be a concern for sheep producers across the province. The virus’s ability to survive in warm and wet conditions, and on the hoof of previously infected sheep for many years, makes it a difficult disease to control. “Mud and manure (help) to cause abrasions to the skin to help the infection get […] Read more
Feed quality starts with proper harvest
Different forages have different ideal harvest stages
Different forage types require different harvest practices for optimal feed quality, says Courtney Vriens, ruminant nutritionist with Vriens Nutrition Consulting. Each of the four main types of forage used by sheep producers, alfalfa, grass, small grain silages and corn silage, provide excellent feed quality if harvested and managed properly. Why it matters: Accomplishing on-farm goals […] Read more
Soybean cyst nematode infected area continues to expand
Soybean’s biggest yield robber gaining resistance as trait effectiveness declines in some areas
Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) continues to migrate across Ontario and is adapting to resistant varieties. Albert Tenuta, field crop pathologist with OMAFRA, says SCN is showing up outside the traditional southwestern Ontario infection areas and into Huron, Bruce and Simcoe counties. Resistant varieties are beginning to show symptoms on the roots. Why it matters: Soybean […] Read more
Mancozeb fungicide approved for continued use
There was concern the fungicide’s registration would be cancelled
Mancozeb, a group M fungicide, has been approved for continued use under the the Pest Control Products Act. The pesticide re-evaluation was completed by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) and the announcement was made Nov. 19. Why it matters: The elimination of Mancozeb would have been costly for farmers. The product has been used […] Read more
New online tool provides yield estimates
Tool allows farmers to make appropriate alterations to crop care and marketing
A new web application is designed to provide farmers with more accurate yield forecasts. Crop Metrics is an Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada app that allows farmers to get accurate data in one place for in-season crops. It is focused on 11 crops including corn, soybeans, canola, durum, spring and winter wheat. “(It) brings together numerous […] Read more
High yields lead to greater nutrient removal
Growers may need to replenish soil crop nutrients after big 2020 yields
Record-breaking soybean yields this year have likely depleted soil nutrients that farmers will need to replace. Why it matters: When reviewing fertility requirements for a specific field, it is usually best to look at the five-year average for that crop on that field, but in a year like this that may not be adequate. Horst […] Read more
How close is too close when it comes to tile drainage?
Projects look at 12.5-foot tile spacing and potential yield benefits
A tile company is working with growers across southwestern Ontario to complete narrow spacing tile plots. Why it matters: Few projects have looked at the value of narrow tile spacing in Ontario. Opportunities like this help growers understand how different tile spacing can improve their crop. During a Middlesex Soil and Crop meeting, Tony Kime, […] Read more
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