Riverine Plains Blog

Key messages

• seasonal conditions have been conducive to slug survival and population build-up over the past several years
• slug monitoring should start in the spring prior to sowing canola, to better understand the risk
• No one method of control is effective in destroying slug populations and growers should consider a range of control strategies as part of an integrated pest management strategy

Key messages:

• dry sowing can help farmers manage production risk and spread the labour load
• when dry-sowing, ensure depth of seed placement is correct
• avoid dry sowing into paddocks with high weed seedbanks and ensure separation of seed and pre-emergent herbicides

 Key Messages

• weed herbicide resistance levels are continuing to increase across the Riverine Plains region
• it’s important to monitor resistance, especially to post-emergent chemicals and glyphosate
• weed seeds can be collected from problem paddocks for resistance testing
• adopting an integrated weed management strategy, or methods from ‘The Big 6’, will ensure farmers stay on top of weed control issues

Key messages:

• Four consecutive good seasons, along with stubble retention and tight cereal rotations have favoured a build-up of Fusarium crown rot in the Riverine Plains region
• High levels of Fusarium crown rot can cause significant yield loss, so assess the risk now by sampling last years’ cereal stubble or by using Predicta®B DNA soil testing
• Integrated management options will reduce the risk of yield loss from Fusarium crown rot and other root diseases

Key Messages

• Develop a plan to identify and manage safety risks during harvest.
• Communicate early and often with your team to manage risks and prevent accidents.
• Harvest is a long haul and safety and well-being need to always take priority.