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By Alice McFarlane

Clubroot Symptoms

Staying ahead of clubroot

Jul 8, 2019 | 1:45 PM

Clubroot is a major concern for canola producers in Saskatchewan.

Certain practices can reduce the risk of spread and lower the severity of areas already affected. Scouting and prevention of clubroot is crucial as this soil-borne disease can lead to lower yields in canola fields if left unchecked.

Ministry of Agriculture Extension Summer Student Paige Straf said there are many strategies to prevent the possible spread of clubroot.

“Implementing a three-to-four year crop rotation, utilizing clubroot resistant varieties, especially if clubroot has been identified in your region,” Straf said. “Controlling volunteer canola plants or other host plants such as mustard, camelina, oilseed radish and some cruciferous vegetables. Some weeds that may be hosts for clubroot are stinkweed, shepherd’s purse and wild mustard.”

Straf said farmers can lower the risk of contaminated soil being spread to new regions by following certain practices.

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“Limiting the number of vehicles entering your land, removing excess soil on equipment and cleaning with sodium hypochlorite,” Straf said. “Reducing erosion with direct seeding or zero tillage and make a separate approach for exiting the field.”

Scouting for clubroot can be done while monitoring for other diseases or pests present in the field. Crucial times to start scouting are near the end of July or the beginning of August when symptoms of clubroot may be more apparent.

“To scout for clubroot, pick 20 plants at five different areas in the field to watch for clubroot gall symptoms. Scout fields where above ground symptoms are present. Some ideal areas to scout are near field entrances, historic yard and garden locations or low areas in the field where moisture is high. Clubroot thrives in warm, moist soils.” Straf said.

Above ground symptoms are plants that may have stunted growth and premature ripening. Straf said above ground symptoms are common with other crop issues so it’s helpful to examine the roots.

“Symptoms below ground are swollen roots called galls which will further decompose to release spores into the soil.” Straf said.

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alice.mcfarlane@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @AliceMcF