2010 Approved Sunflower Research
Sunflower research in Canada is very minimal, therefore one of the top priorities of National Sunflower Association of Canada is to fund research activities that will provide growers the information to better understand and respond to crop limiting factors. In 2010, the NSAC has allocated over $100,000 of sunflower check-off dollars to research activities at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, University of Manitoba and Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives. This is over 60% of the projected check off dollars for 2010.
2010 Funded Projects – to date
Manitoba Crop Surveillance Survey - $50,000
Project Description - To serve NSAC’s grower members, by surveying the 2010 Sunflower crop and on a weekly basis, publish findings on www.canadasunflower.com. The surveillance survey will provide grower members a better understanding and response system to crop limiting factors by accessing timely, independent and professionally gathered agronomic information.
Control of Sclerotinia Head Rot and Rust in sunflower - $21,160
Principal Researchers: Dr. Rashid, AAFC - Morden
Project Description - To assess the efficacy of several fungicides (8-10) on reducing the incidence and severity of Sclerotinia head rot and rust in sunflower in separate trials. The Sclerotinia trial will be artificially inoculated with ascospores of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum under a misting system, while the rust control trial will be under natural field infestation of rust.
Developing yield loss relationships and economic thresholds for difficult to manage weeds in sunflowers in Manitoba - $15,000
PrincipalResearcher: Rob Gulden, University of Manitoba
Project Description - To determine the importance of density and relative time of emergence in difficult to manage weeds on crop development and final yield in sunflower.
Sunflower Multi-Input Trials - $12,000
Project Description – To determine if there is one single or a combination of crop protection inputs that contribute increased confection sunflower yield and quality. Located at two locations in the province: Melita and Beausejour.
Sunflower Insecticides: HGW86 and Coragen - $3,500
Project Description – To investigate the efficacy of HGW86 and Coragen insecticides on the control of three primary target insects; banded sunflower moth, sunflower moth and sunflower bud moth. Secondary target insects include sunflower beetle and sunflower seed weevil.
NSA Sunflower Survey - $150
Project Description – In conjunction with the National Sunflower Association of the U.S., a survey is conducted surveying 1 field for every 10,000 acres. Survey teams assess Sunflower fields for yield, weeds, insects, disease and bird damage. The survey will provide growers with a North American prospective of the Sunflower crop. Data results are published on the NSA Website www.sunflowernsa.com
TOTAL SUNFLOWER RESEARCH FUNDED TO DATE: $101,810