SK Seeding Passes Three-Quarters Complete

Saskatchewan producers made good progress in the fields this past week, although planting is still behind the five-year average pace.

Thursday’s weekly crop report estimated planting in the province at 77% complete as of Monday, up from 56% a week earlier but behind the five- and 10-year averages of 91% and 89%, respectively.

Crop emergence is reported to be in excellent to good condition across the province. Lentils are performing particularly well, with 37% of the crop rated as excellent and 59% as good. Field peas and chickpeas are also showing strong emergence, with most of these crops in excellent to good condition.

The southeast region leads the province with 84% of seeding complete, followed closely by the southwest at 83% and the northwest at 80%. The east-central and west-central regions are at 73% and 71% completion, respectively, while the northeast lags slightly behind at 68%.

Field peas and lentils are the furthest along, with 92% and 91% of their respective areas seeded. Other crops like durum and spring wheat are also progressing well, with 87% and 84% completion. Canola seeding stands at 71%, while flax is at 67%.

Rainfall was variable across the province, with the highest amounts recorded in northern regions. The Sonningdale area saw 45 mm, while the Battlefords and Radisson areas received 36 mm and 33 mm, respectively. These rainfalls have generally improved topsoil moisture conditions, with 89% of cropland rated as having adequate moisture.

Crop damage remains minimal, though some areas reported light frost and waterlogging. Flea beetles and cutworms have been noted, prompting some producers to take control measures. Grasshopper activity has been observed, but no significant damage has been reported so far.

As seeding operations continue, producers are also busy with other fieldwork activities such as moving cattle to pasture, spraying, rock picking, and land rolling. If weather conditions remain favourable, it is expected that seeding will be completed within the next week, opined the report.