If the weather forecast is poor, is it better to seed or to wait?

If the weather forecast is poor, is it better to seed or to wait?

If soil temperatures are 5°C or warmer and short-term conditions are favourable, seeding is generally a sound choice. Canola is resilient and can often withstand challenging early-season conditions. Focus on controllable factors: seed at ½ to 1 inch depth (closer to 1 inch in dry soils), level the drill, reduce travel speed to ensure seeding consistency, and manage seed-placed fertilizer carefully. In dry conditions, pack more to conserve moisture in the seed row and ensure adequate seed-to-soil contact.

Following frost, patience is important. Canola can withstand light frost and may show temporary purpling without permanent damage. Wait 4–5 days before evaluating the need to reseed. Yield potential typically remains high in canola seeded even into early June, but an earlier seeded, uniform plant stand, even if reduced by frost, will still have an advantage over later seeded canola.
 
How to best manage flea beetles now?

Flea beetle seed treatments last three to four weeks. The clock starts ticking on their efficacy as soon as the seed takes in water and begins germinating. Support rapid crop emergence , since that allows seedlings a longer period of above-ground protection.

Flea beetle feeding damage in volunteer canola does not necessarily correlate to a high population in-crop, but scout diligently regardless. Recent reports from Alberta noted significant stem feeding in volunteer canola. Stem feeding kills plants quickly and may require earlier control than the typical 25% leaf surface threshold: here’s help on making that decision. (Flea beetle management tips)