Ontario producers are hard at work with planting season – and while they’re not experiencing quite the same cold temperatures and heavy precipitation as those in Western Canada, variable weather patterns have meant a proactive approach to inputs is needed. The update for the week of May 4 shows that growers are making quick decisions to plant and complete other field work in available windows, while also making proactive manure decisions.
As is typical with variable weather, windows for field work have been short. Most areas, according to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agri-Food, have had at least a few days to spread manure, as well as fertilizer. Manure applications, according to OMAFA, are being “strategically planned” to reduce some rates of starter or broadcast fertilizer.
The update also included minutes from the Exeter Breakfast Meeting on March 5, where attendees expressed that lots of manure had been applied in the area, and those with manure in their systems were cutting back on starter fertility programs.
However, growers are also more conscious about compaction, and many are waiting to make their applications until the conditions are fit. Additionally, more tire inflation systems on tanks are helping to reduce compaction.
