Influences of Tillage on Blackleg and Other Diseases of Canola Grown in Rotation with Barley

Researcher:

Dr. Prem D. Kharbanda and Ralph Lange, Alberta Research Council, Vegreville, AB

Project Code:

CARP 9614

Final Report:

March 2001

Summary:

In the mid-1990s, given the introduction of several blackleg resistant canola cultivars and the widespread adoption of reduced tillage systems, growers were interested in finding out if canola could be planted more often within a rotation. However, limited information was available on how shorter rotation intervals would affect blackleg and other diseases of canola. Researchers conducted a four-year project at Viking, Alberta from 1996 to 2000 to determine the effects of tillage systems and crop rotations on the severity of canola diseases. Overall the study showed that all cultivars showed reductions in disease levels in response to longer rotation. Growers who adopt short rotations risk substantial yield losses, even if resistant cultivars are used. The project also demonstrated that reduced tillage does not increase the severity of blackleg and other diseases of canola.