In Ontario, Follings agrees that liquid nitrogen is optimal, especially with the rolling topography in many areas, but that it requires the right equipment and may not be for everyone. She says splitting nitrogen applications is the way to maximize yields and minimize the potential for lodging. Macro and micronutrients are also necessary for good yields in both countries, and tissue testing is key. For example, Watson applies 25 to 30 kilograms of magnesium per hectare and about 35 kilograms of sulphur per hectare of wheat. He regularly does tissue testing, especially for trace element deficiencies (e.g. manganese, zinc and boron) to “see what’s going on during the growing season” and adjust fertility if needed. Follings says that growers involved in the YEN did tissue testing twice during the growing season and found that there were some nutrient deficiencies this year, such as manganese, which they were able to correct thanks to the results. WEEDS AND DISEASE For his herbicide program, Watson adds a pre-drilling grass weed killer, does another pass post drilling and in the pre-emergent stage. During the growing season, up to growth stage 39, the crop will be sprayed with up to five insecticides. “We’re very susceptible to barley yellow dwarf virus, which is transmitted by aphids, which we need to get rid of,” he says. In Ontario, fall aphid feeding can be less of a threat if planting happens within the optimum planting date window, although Follings says that following Integrated Pest Management, including regular scouting, is a good way to ward off problems. Watson uses five fungicides throughout the season, sometimes in combination with the insecticides. His low seeding rates and aggressive spray strategy help prevent lodging, which can cause significant losses, especially in the high-yielding fields. “It can mean two and a half to three tonnes a hectare,” he says. “It’s quite dramatic.” Lodging can also be a problem in Ontario but can be managed by either splitting nitrogen applications or using plant growth regulators (PGR). Choosing varieties that have a low lodging score is also a good way to manage lodging, according to Follings. “Our main diseases are yellow and brown rust and septoria, which are yield robbers as well, so control is important,” Watson says, adding that getting the spray timing right is critical. In Ontario, fusarium is the big disease enemy, especially if the season is wet, and fungicides used appropriately can help. Follings advises growers to monitor how the wheat crop is doing by getting into the fields and checking them out. “It’s the best way to find out the growth stage, as well as disease, weed and insect pressure,” she says. l ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 11 SEPTEMBER 2023 “The most cost-effective way to optimize and maximize your yields is with timely planting.” Bringing technology to Join us at Eastern Canada’s largest outdoor farm show - an experience where the latest in agricultural technology comes to life in the field. September 12, 13 & 14, 2023 outdoorfarmshow.com
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