Canola Seeding Rate Considerations

 As the weather starts to warm up and people are itching to get out into the field, it’s time to talk seeding rates for canola crops. Seeding rates are a key factor in plant density which can have huge impacts on the structure of canola plants, uniformity of maturity and yield potential of the crop. 

Target Plant Population: 5 to 8 Canola Plants per Square Foot 

The Canola Council of Canada recommends a target plant population of 5 to 8 canola plants per square foot. 

Reaching this target population requires acknowledgement of some of the risks that canola crops face, such as frost, insect damage and weeds. If it’s expected to have low seed survivability due to adverse conditions, that needs to be compensated for with a higher seeding rate. 

Typically, a seeding rate that aims for at least 10 seeds per square foot will result in a strong and uniform crop. Any lower than this may start to show uneven stands which can be more susceptible to: 

• Insect damage: Plants with gaps are more vulnerable to pests.   
• Weed pressure: Sparse stands allow weeds to establish more easily.   
• Uneven and later maturity: Inconsistent emergence can delay harvest.   

These factors can all result in yield losses. 

Using Thousand Seed Weight (TSW) to Calculate Seeding Rate 

One of the first things to know when calculating seeding rate is the thousand seed weight (TSW) of the seed. Using the TSW to calculate seeding rate rather than just using a flat pounds per acre will give greater accuracy in reaching desired plant populations. 

This number can be found on the seed tag of canola bags. Larger seed sizes (a higher TSW) will need a higher pounds per acre seeding rate than a smaller seed size to achieve the same seeds per square foot. 

With many companies, including BrettYoung in 2023, moving to a specific seed count per bag of canola, calculating your seeding rate based on TSW is critical to making sure you achieve 10 seeded acres per bag. 

Evaluating Field Conditions and Seed Survival Rate 

Unique field conditions should play a part in determining seed survival rate, and therefore seeding rate. 

Keeping track of your emergence rate over the years can help to find a seeding rate that suits your fields best. Conduct plant counts 2 to 3 weeks after emergence and compare the plant per square foot that have survived to the seeds per square foot that were planted. This will give the emergence rate. 

Field Factors That Affect Survival 

These field factors are helpful to keep in mind as you consider what might influence seed survivability this year. 

• Soil type: Sandy or compacted soils can reduce emergence.   
• Moisture levels: Drought or excess moisture influences seed survival.   
• Weed and insect pressure: Higher pressure lowers survivability.   

Management practices of seed depth and timing also have an effect. The earlier you seed, the higher risk of spring frost or cooler soils and unfavourable growing conditions. 

Using Canola Council Online Calculators 

Seed is a big investment, so knowing the appropriate seeding rate will help provide some cost certainty heading into the growing season. 

Online calculators on the Canola Council website are excellent tools for growers who are looking for some assistance with determining seeding rates and how much seed to buy. 

Seeding Rate & Seed Cost Calculator 

Once a target density value has been determined, it can be inputted into the website’s Seeding Rate & Seed Cost Calculator. 

This calculator also factors in seed size (the TSW measurement found on every bag of certified seed) which is another key element in the seeding rate equation. 

If you would like to learn more about determining seeding rates for your farm this spring or if you’d like support with your BrettYoung canola this season, contact your BrettYoung Regional Account Manager. 

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