Evaluating the effectiveness of pod-sealants for reducing shattering losses in several cultivars of direct-combined canola

Researcher:

Chris Holzapfel, Indian Head Agricultural Research Foundation, Indian Head SK, Cecil Vera, Northeast Agricultural Research Foundation, Melfort SK, Sherrilyn Phelps, Western Applied Research Corporation, Scott SK and Bryan Nybo, Wheatland Conservation Area, Inc., Swift Current SK

Project Code:

CARP SCDC 2009-1 and CARP SCDC 2010-5

Final Report:

March 2010

Summary:

Field trials and grower experiences alike have shown that, while it is not uncommon to straight-combine canola successfully, substantial yield losses can occur and have been reported as high as 50% relative to swathing. A study at 4 locations in Saskatchewan in 2009 and 2010 evaluated the feasibility of straight-combining canola, the importance of cultivar selection, and the ability of commercial pod sealants to reduce shattering losses and increase yields in straight-combined canola. Overall the study found that straight-combining can be a viable alternative to swathing, but substantial yield losses may occur if harvest is delayed too long. Important varietal differences in shattering losses were detected and cultivar selection appears to be a factor of greater importance than pod sealants for growers planning to straight-combine canola.