OMAFRA is trying to establish a baseline of data on bacterial soft rots (shown here) in potato storage and blackleg in fields during the 2024 growing season.

Survey an opportunity to learn about potato diseases

Goal is to uncover more about soft rots and blackleg

A provincial survey aims to establish a baseline of data on bacterial soft rots in potato storage and blackleg in fields during the 2024 growing season. The two diseases are common yet the bacterial species responsible are becoming more aggressive, particularly with the Dickeya genus, one of the newer species responsible for blackleg and soft […] Read more

The characteristics of tar spot –the dark or black lesions on the leaf –can be mistaken for other diseases like leaf rust and eyespot or for insect frass (droppings).

Relative humidity and leaf wetness impact tar spot growth

The southern Ontario situation in 2023 provided more insight on management strategies

A look at tar spot in Canada and the U.S. shows the vital role of humidity in fostering the disease. In 2023, the big difference between the U.S. and Ontario was dryness; Michigan and other parts of the Midwest were dry compared to much of southern Ontario. The provincial corn crop was also planted later, […] Read more

Clubroot was first confirmed in northern Ontario in 2017.

Clubroot pathotypes overcoming resistance, research finds

University of Guelph researcher says number of resistant pathotypes is expanding

Clubroot pathotypes are evolving past first-generation canola resistance, which will require new management and monitoring techniques to keep its spread in check. “Once you have clubroot in your field, it’s pretty much there for good,” said University of Guelph professor Mary Ruth McDonald, because the resting spores have incredible soil longevity and zoospores can swim […] Read more


Phytopthora root rot causes seed rots, pre- and post emergence damping off and stem rot of plants at various growth stages.

Phytophthora root rot still a concern

It’s been eclipsed, but it’s still a challenge to growers in Ontario

Phytophthora root rot was major concern to growers in the province 25 to 30 years ago, when Roundup Ready soybeans were just emerging on the marketplace, Bt corn was in its infancy, and GPS-based yield monitors were available primarily as after-purchase combine enhancements. Why it matters: Agronomists noted there were hot spots in the province […] Read more

Gibberella ear rot was the primary disease causing higher levels of deoxynivalenol in 2023, as it did in 2018.

Mycotoxin situation returns in 2023

The good news is that it wasn’t as bad as other years

Before the planter or drill rolls into a field, there’s hope that rain and sun will be timely and sufficient, that weeds, diseases and insects will be minimal and commodity prices will provide the right finish to the growing season. Then reality sets in. That’s the scenario in most years and 2023 was no different. […] Read more

Tar spot was joined by northern corn leaf blight (shown here) in some Ontario fields, further affecting yields.

Biological control could help reduce tar spot challenges

Recent work studies the impact of Alternaria on impeding disease

Researchers and plant breeders have been working to develop ways to overcome tar spot in corn, but there three primary factors confound the search. For starters, the disease pathogen (Phyllachora maydis) only grows on living tissue. Recreating the ideal conditions under which the disease flourishes (temperatures between 16 C and 23 C and relative humidity […] Read more


Soybean production was challenged by several stressors in 2023 but there will be more solutions next spring.

Disease management, higher yields focus for seed development

What new directions and new technologies are in the offing for 2024

The challenge of keeping pace with weeds, diseases and insects isn’t only an issue for growers. It affects seed dealers and plant breeders as well. They search for hybrids and varieties that combine superior yield with in-field performance relating to standability, test weights, durability and quality. Farmtario has invited seed companies across the province to […] Read more

Malteurop, which operates a malt house at the east end of Winnipeg, is one of several malting companies with a presence in Manitoba. (Dave Bedard photo)

CMBTC study finds new malting barley lines a fit for Manitoba

Agronomic traits in new varieties overcome disease issues that held crop back

Manitoba farmers have improved prospects to access the more-lucrative malting barley market, according to a recent study. The report by the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre (CMBTC), in collaboration with the Manitoba Crop Alliance, says new Canadian malting barley varieties can be grown successfully in Manitoba. With yields and quality comparable to the check variety […] Read more