Seeding rate

Achieving 7 to 10 plants per square foot can mean some high seeding rates for seed with large thousand seed weights (TSW). Therefore, going much above 6 lb./ac. is not generally recommended — regardless of TSW. The better agronomic strategy is to put effort into increasing seed survival rather than invest in a higher seeding rate…

For growers who want to keep things simple, a standard seeding rate of 5 lb./ac. should meet the basic needs of stand establishment — as long as all other steps for a good stand are followed. Growers who want a seeding rate that establishes 7 to 10 plants per square foot — 4 plants is about the minimum but you…

With an average seeding rate of 5 lb./ac., an average thousand seed weight (TSW) of 5 grams, and 50% seed survival rate, the result is only 5.2 plants per square foot. This doesn’t leave much margin for error — especially given the ideal target is 7 to 10 plants per square foot. Seed with a lighter TSW can improve your…

The ideal canola stand will have 7-10 plants per square foot. Canola needs a minimum of 4-5 plants per square foot, on average, to reach its yield potential. A few extra plants improves the chance of hitting yield targets, and allows for some plant loss to insects and disease. Canola with plant populations below 4-5 per square foot can still…

Without attention to seeding speed, drill maintenance and other factors that lead to poor seed survival, a canola stand can easily look like this one. A uniform 7 to 10 plants per square foot helps canola meet its yield potential AND mature faster…

For the variety you have chosen to reach its full potential, it is important to get an adequate number of healthy plants growing. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada surveys of canola fields in Alberta in 2010 and Saskatchewan fields in 2012 found that only about half of fields achieved an average of 5 plants or more per square foot. Canola plant…