Early season weed control

What makes weed control the top priority this week? 

Early season weed management is essential, especially in dry soils where every drop of moisture matters. The weeds already up are the ones that will rob the most yield this season. Before hitting the field: 

• Take time for a thorough sprayer clean-out. Products like Liberty can loosen residue from previous applications, increasing the risk of contamination injury. Use the right cleaner — detergent or ammonia. Here’s how to recognize a spray contamination issue.
• Scout to know what weeds you need to tackle and what stage those weeds are at. For weed control options, check the annual provincial publication (Alberta / Saskatchewan / Manitoba) for current recommendations. Always refer to product labels.

(Spray early - economics of early weed control) (Spraying tips for tough conditions)

Why (and how) to count plants now?

Counting plants at the two-leaf stage is key to confirming emergence, evaluating seeding success, and guiding next steps. Ask: was the seeding rate appropriate? How might plant density (and/or variable staging) impact crop management through the rest of the season?

Dry conditions and soil crusting may have led to slow emergence or uneven crop maturity, but keep in mind: canola is a remarkably adaptable crop. While the target stand is 5–8 plants/ft2, even a uniform stand of just 2 plants/ft2 can still perform well and should likely be kept rather than reseeded.