Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Rhodiola rosea is a new crop in Alberta requiring crop protection against weeds. It's a labour-intensive crop, requiring 5 years of manual weeding. There are no registered herbicides for this crop and demand is high to supply a sustainably-grown product. In order to meet global demands and relieve stress on the endangered native populations, methods must be found to efficiently grow and improve yield and crop acreage base.
This research will collect crop safety data to support registration quazalofop-p-ethyl for grass weed control in rhodiola rosea.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
This research will support the development of herbicides, providing protection against crop losses and yield reduction. Growers will also be able to expand their acreages, making rhodiola farming more attractive. Control of grassy weeds is expected to increase yields up to 94%; growers will benefit from increased efficiencies in crop management, less manual labour, and improved yields.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Findings will be provided to industry, the province, researchers, and regulators. This will include recommendations for integrated weed management approaches combining a variety of tools and practices.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.