Ag alert: Early detection of Clubroot in Canola during flowering stage

Venkat Chapara, Plant Pathologist, NDSU/Langdon Research Extension Center, Langdon, ND 58249

Clubroot in Cavalier County

Ag Alert: Early Detection of Clubroot in Canola during Flowering Stage

Venkat Chapara, Plant Pathologist, NDSU/Langdon Research Extension Center

Clubroot on Canola has been identified in five out of six canola fields at flowering stage scouted over the last five days in Cavalier County. Last year it was noticed in six out of 59 fields scouted at the end of the season (swathing). By the end of this season it may be in more fields than expected!

Clubroot on Canola is caused by a soil borne pathogen which has the characteristics of plant, animal and fungi for which there is no silver bullet for control. Once in the soil, it can live up to 17 years!

Management:
Sanitation of equipment, longer crop rotations (at least 2-3 years) and using resistant varieties can minimize yield losses.

Please call the Langdon Research Extension Center (256-2582) or the Cavalier County Extension Office (256-2560), if you suspect any abnormality in the growth of your canola crop.

Picture 1: Severely infected field with clubroot- Notice stunted growth and death of the plants.

Picture 2: Galls on canola roots infected with Clubroot.