---
title: 2026 Seed Production Crop Report
description: "Across Western Canada, the 2026 seed production season was shaped by a mix of cool spring conditions, variable moisture and some challenging late-season weather. Despite those differences, many regions are reporting average to above-average yields, strong results in several key…"
url: "https://brettyoung.ca/agricultural-seed-crop-inputs-canada-portal/knowledge-hub/seedproductionmedia/2026-seed-production-crop-report/"
updated: "2026-10-14"
category: Seed Production
---

# 2026 Seed Production Crop Report

Across Western Canada, the 2026 seed production season was shaped by a mix of cool spring conditions, variable moisture and some challenging late-season weather. Despite those differences, many regions are reporting average to above-average yields, strong results in several key crops and promising new stands heading into 2027.

### ********East & Interlake Manitoba********

Perennial ryegrass came through winter well across much of Eastern Manitoba and benefited from May rains. Harvest was about a week later than average, but conditions were favourable for many fields and yields finished average to above average. Armyworms were present in a number of fields, with some requiring treatment.

Tall fescue and timothy also performed well, with yields generally average to slightly above average. Annual ryegrass and alfalfa faced more challenges from excess moisture and cool, wet fall conditions.

### ****North Central Manitoba****

In North Central Manitoba, tall fescue was one of the standout crops of the season. It matured ahead of the hottest weather and produced a strong crop, with most fields yielding between 1,000 and 1,300 pounds per acre.

Perennial ryegrass also finished on the high side of average, although flooding, lodging, heat during pollination and higher dockage affected seed quality and bushel weights. Timothy was closer to average, while later-maturing annual ryegrass faced more difficult harvest conditions.

### **Western Manitoba**

Western Manitoba saw a good harvest window for perennial ryegrass and tall fescue, with dry conditions in early August allowing many growers to swath and harvest without rain on the crop. Despite expectations for a larger crop, excess moisture in lower areas and a cool start to the season kept results closer to average overall.

Annual ryegrass started very strong, with above-average yields and good seed quality, but high humidity and frequent September rain made later harvest more difficult. Alfalfa and clover were also challenged by the wetter conditions.

### ****Saskatchewan****

Tall fescue was a bright spot in Saskatchewan after above-average rainfall in June helped the crop along. Harvest conditions were favourable for most fields and yields finished above average.

Perennial ryegrass had a more difficult season, with thinner stands and below-average results, while annual ryegrass was delayed by later seeding and September rainfall. Timothy also saw some armyworm pressure. Looking ahead, newly established perennial stands are in good condition heading into winter.

### ****Central & Northern Alberta****

Moisture made a big difference across Central and Northern Alberta. Creeping red fescue yields were below average in drier areas around Spirit River, Dawson Creek and Fort St. John, while timothy and brome performed much better where moisture was more favourable.

Around Edmonton, excess moisture contributed to more weed pressure and some storm damage, although yields remained around average. New clover and alfalfa stands are looking promising, with alfalfa yields expected to finish average to above average.

### ****Southern Alberta****

Southern Alberta saw a season of changing conditions, starting dry before significant rainfall arrived in June. July was warm and dry, which was favourable for grass flowering and alfalfa pollination, before wetter weather returned in August.

Grass harvested before the late-season rains came off well and yielded strongly. Fields harvested later faced more difficult conditions and some losses, but yields were still above average overall. Insect pressure was also lower this season, helping alfalfa perform well.

### ****Looking Ahead****

Overall, the 2026 season delivered solid results across much of Western Canada despite very different growing conditions from region to region. Several crops finished above average, and many new stands are heading into winter in good condition, setting the stage for another strong seed production season in 2027.

To learn more about integrating forage and turf seed production into your operation, connect with a BrettYoung [Seed Production Specialist.](https://brettyoung.ca/seed-production-portal/contacts/)