While scattered rains have brought a welcome break from early-season dryness in parts of Alberta, conditions remain mixed across the province — especially for farmers in the South who continue to face significant moisture stress. That’s according to the new provincial crop report.
Crops Advancing, But Lagging Behind Historical Averages
Across Alberta, crop conditions are rated 50% good to excellent, well below the five- and 10-year averages of 71% and 70%. All major crops are tracking below historical levels, with canola sitting at just 45% good to excellent and dry peas slightly better at 52%.
The good news? Development is ahead of schedule in many areas. Spring cereals are nearing stem elongation, and fall-seeded crops are already flowering. In the South, 40% of canola is in the rosette stage and 5% is flowering, while nearly half of dry peas have hit the 7–12 node stage.
Spraying Ahead of Schedule, Pest Pressures Low — For Now
Post-emergent spraying is well underway, with 66% complete province-wide. Southern and Central regions lead the way at 84% and 77% complete, while the Peace Region lags at just 34%. This year’s spraying is ahead of historical norms, thanks to favourable weather windows.
Pest pressure remains relatively low, although flea beetles are active in the South. Seven percent of fields there are rated over threshold. Elsewhere, minor issues with grasshoppers, cutworms, wireworms, and gophers have been reported but aren’t causing widespread concern.
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