Technical Bulletin No 9. 29.7.2022

• Sowing is wrapping up across the region.
• Urea was going out before rain this week.
• Weed management in early-established canola is largely complete, with remaining crop types to occur in the next couple of weeks.
• Establishment is patchy and is driven by cover/moisture. This rain will hopefully even establishment.
• Resowing is occurring where slugs have caused severe damage. Some are saying damage is the worst they have seen.

• Cereals range from Z31/32 through to head emergence depending on location and sowing date. Canola
  growth stages are also variable.
• Stripe rust has been reported and is being proactively managed.
• Mice are present in patchy numbers; some baiting is occurring where damage is significant.
• Lentil prices have meant cleaning and selling some lentils has been worthwhile.
• Resistance testing of weed escapes, particularly ryegrass will help with planning

Very warm oceans to our north are creating an enhanced moisture source, and a blocking high hanging around in the Tasman Sea is stalling the passage of fronts, lows and troughs, which has led to persistent harvest rainfall. There still is no La Nina…

• Canola windrowing is complete or underway in most regions
• Hay quality has generally been good due to a drier curing period
• Despite lower growing season rainfall, most regions are generally in a good position for harvest
• Growers are organising harvest priorities and logistics, particularly those still bailing hay while also starting to harvest canola and barley
• Cropping plans for 2024 are being reviewed as final passes on paddocks occur, taking account of weeds, disease and other risks

• Sowing is continuing with growers 30 per cent (Wimmera) – 70 per cent (Mallee) through their program.
• Insect pressure is starting to increase and is requiring monitoring.
• Slugs are still causing concerns in known problem areas.
• Growers are looking for rain in the next week with surfaces now drying quickly.
• Some in-season sprays have commenced in early crops such as canola.