Enhanced understanding of cleavers populations in Western Canada
Term: 4 years, beginning in 2021
Status: Ongoing
Researcher(s): Breanne Tidemann, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
SaskCanola Investment: $51,800
Total Project Cost: $103,600
Funding Partners: Alberta Canola Producers Commission
Project Description
Understanding weed biology is the first best management practice (BMP) for reducing risk of herbicide resistance. This study will result in an understanding of different cleavers biotypes that exist across the Prairies, their emergence phenology, and some of their biological characteristics. This knowledge will help in the development of integrated weed management strategies for managing a common pest in canola – such as whether two in-crop applications of herbicide would be optimal. Additionally, a baseline screening for quinclorac resistance will be conducted that can be used to do a very preliminary assessment of frequency of resistance and also potentially provide a source of seed for future studies.
Objectives
Evaluate presence of cleavers biotypes on the Prairies based on emergence phenology, whorl/branch number close to maturity, seed production, and 1,000 seed weight.
Evaluate emergence timing of cleavers (assumed Galium spurium) populations on the Prairies.
Determine if any of the above characteristics are affected by maternal environment.
Screen collected populations for quinclorac resistance.