Hail Damage – Getting Too Late to Recover

Thunderstorms last week and over the weekend brought hail to parts of Alberta and central Manitoba. It is likely getting too late in the growing season for canola plants to compensate and recover from severe hail damage. Mid-season hail is also a concern for disease access. The hail wounds on the plant can provide points of entry for disease pathogens such as sclerotinia stem rot, alternaria black spot or blackleg if environmental conditions have been conducive to spore production and disease development. More information about hail damage to canola is available at the following link: http://www.canola-council.org/chapter5.aspx.