As seeding wraps up across the province, most crops now need warm weather to thrive, according to the latest provincial crop report. Although some areas still require additional rain, many regions report surplus moisture and need consecutive hot days to support crop development and health. Light frost has been reported in every region except the Peace, potentially affecting young plants, but the full impact on crops will become clear in the coming weeks.
The South Region also experienced snow, and there were reports of minor to damaging hail across the province. Despite these challenges, crop conditions are ahead of historical averages, with 73 percent of all crops rated in good to excellent condition compared to the 5-year and 10-year averages of 69 and 70 percent, respectively (see Table 1).
Currently, the growth stages of spring cereals are slightly behind in all regions except for the Peace, which is significantly ahead. The province is on track for cereal growth staging compared to the 5-year average. For major broadleaf crops, the Central and North West Regions have more crops in early leaf/node stages than the 5-year average, while the South, North East, and Peace Regions are ahead of the 5-year staging average.
Post-emergent spraying has started across 96 percent of the province, close to the 5- and 10-year average of 98 percent. However, progress has been slow due to rain, wind, and wet fields, with only 49 percent of projected spraying completed so far.
The excess moisture this year could increase disease pressures. In terms of pests, wireworms and root maggots are the only pests reported with moderate or above-threshold presence compared to the 5-year average. Regionally, the South has a strong presence of gophers, grasshoppers, and flea beetles, while the Central Region also has a significant gopher presence.
Precipitation continued this week, with most areas receiving at least 5-10 mm of rain. The Peace Region, southwest Central Region, and northwest South Region experienced higher amounts, with 30-80 mm of precipitation. While some areas still need more rain or are satisfied with current levels, the cool month has prevented crops from reaching their full potential despite the available moisture (see map). The Peace, North West, and North East Regions have reported standing water, reflected in the high levels of excessive surface soil moisture shown in Table 2. In the Peace Region, some crops have started turning yellow. However, forecasts predict mid to high 20-degree weather across the province, which could improve growing conditions.
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