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Crop Talks with Jordyn & Jack
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Crop Talks with Jordyn & Jack
July 16, 2026
We're excited to launch Crop Talks with Jack & Jordyn, a new series designed to keep you in the know throughout the summer and fall about what's happening in the fields across Southern Alberta. Whether you're a grower, a member, or simply curious about the growing season, we'll be sharing updates throughout the season on crop conditions, pest pressures, field activities, weather impacts, and everything in between. Think of this as your quick, easy-to-read snapshot of what's happening across our region each week and what to look for in the fields.
Week of September 3rd, 2026
Blackleg Showing Up in Southern Alberta Canola Fields
During the Adama Tour in July, there was valuable discussion around blackleg disease and the impact it can have on canola yields in southern Alberta. While blackleg is often overlooked, our South Country Co-op Grow Team is now finding infected canola plants in both the High River and Brooks areas, reinforcing the importance of field scouting as harvest approaches.
What Should Growers Be Looking For?
As you complete pre-harvest staging or post-harvest soil sampling, take the opportunity to inspect your canola fields for signs of disease.
During pre-harvest scouting, watch for:
- Plants that have ripened prematurely
- Areas of the field that appear to be dying off ahead of the rest of the crop
- Blackened stem tissue near the base of the plant
To assess infection levels, pull several plants and use pruning shears to cut the stem just above the soil line. Inspect the stem tissue for dark discoloration and sample approximately 10 to 15 plants throughout the field to gain a better understanding of disease pressure.
After harvest, pay close attention to stems that appear white or bleached, as these plants may have died earlier than surrounding plants that still contain some green tissue.
Blackleg or Verticillium Stripe?
One challenge growers face is that blackleg and verticillium stripe can be difficult to distinguish visually. If you suspect either disease is present, consider submitting plant samples for verification through: 20/20 Seed Labs Crop Diversification Centre South in Brooks, where samples can be assessed by plant pathology specialists
Why It Matters
Blackleg can have a significant impact on yield potential. If infected tissue is found in the lower stem, disease severity can be used to estimate potential yield loss.
Based on a recent field sample submitted by our Grow Team, the level of infection observed could represent an estimated 35% to 50% yield reduction in affected plants.
Need Assistance?
If you're unsure what you're seeing in the field or would like help assessing disease pressure ahead of harvest, contact your local South Country Co-op Grow Team. We're here to help you identify issues, confirm diagnoses, and develop management strategies that protect yield potential for future seasons.
