Alberta Crop Seeding Nears Completion Amid Warm Winds

Seeding almost done with early crop emergence and pest concerns

According to the AFSC and Alberta Government Crop Reporting Survey, crop seeding across Alberta is 99 per cent complete, ahead of the 5- and 10-year averages of 96 and 95.6 per cent. Favourable warm and windy weather helped farmers complete planting quickly, with limited rain delays. 

Early emergence is noticeable across the province. About 83 per cent of all crops have emerged, compared to the 66 per cent five-year average.  

Key crops like spring wheat, barley, and dry peas are ahead in development stages. For example, spring wheat is at the 8-leaf stage and barley has reached the 7-leaf stage. Canola and dry peas are also progressing well. 

Farmers have also started post-emergence spraying earlier than usual, with 25 per cent already complete—more than double the average, due to rising pest activity observed across the province. 

In regional assessments, crop emergence is strong, with the South reporting 94 per cent and the Peace region at 78 per cent. Pests like flea beetles, wireworms, lygus bugs, army cutworms, and gophers have been noted in several areas. 

Pasture and tame hay growth conditions remain close to average, with 59 per cent of both rated good to excellent. However, limited rainfall has led to declining soil moisture. Only 42 per cent of both surface and sub-surface soil is rated good to excellent—well below historical averages. June rains will be critical to improve these conditions. 

Soil moisture varies by region. The Central region fares best, while the Peace region continues to struggle. Farmers are hopeful that upcoming rains will boost moisture levels and support continued healthy crop growth. 

For more information about flea beetles, wireworms, lygus bugs and  army cutworms, please visit the Farms.com Field Guide Pest pages. 

Photo Credit: whitefringed-beetle