Primed for the Season

So far, the only thing predictable about the weather is its unpredictability. From a winter that brought us an unusually low snow cover in most parts of the Prairies, to a very snowy March and a cool/cold April, it’s anyone’s guess how May will play out.

Even though it is not without its challenges, producers usually want to get a jump on seeding, knowing that early seeding usually translates to bigger yields and better quality at harvest. However, early seeding isn’t the only factor in maximizing yield potential and quality.

If we are looking at a delayed start this year, there’s one way that producers can ensure their seeds hit the ground running, and that’s by using a seed primer. Primers provide seedlings with the nutrition they need from germination through to the 3-5 leaf stage, when the root system is fully developed. Crops emerge faster, stronger, more resilient and on-track to maturity.

OMEX Primers have been developed with unique blends of macro- and micro-nutrients to meet the specific needs of oilseeds, cereals, pulses and soybeans. Each of the seven primers has been carefully formulated to provide nutrition, correct nutrient deficiencies, and encourage rapid germination and development. Seeds treated with a primer can quickly get up to speed; making up for a later start and taking advantage of the benefits that would have be gained by earlier seeding.

A great example of this is our Primer Canola. Canola treated with Primer Canola will reach the bolting stage quicker and flower before the peak of summer heat, thus reducing the risk of flower abortion and pod blanks (aka “heat blast”). Advanced maturity also means earlier dry down and better harvest management, with crops coming off the field before the first frosts of fall.

Maturity delays can also leave crops vulnerable to pests and diseases. Wheat, for example, is susceptible to midge attacks between heading and flowering, so it’s important for a crop to reach that stage before the adult midge emerges in late June or early July. On cereals, using a primer, such as Primer Cu, Primer Mn or Primer Zn, can help prevent delays and preserve yield by correcting specific nutrient deficiencies and encouraging strong root and cell growth in the earliest stages of development. It’s also important to note that using Primer Mn alongside the fungicide treatment could keep the seed- and soil-borne disease at bay and help to prevent fungicide resistance on the farm.

Whether you’re seeding early or seeding late, talk to your retailer or OMEX sales representative for more information on how a nutrient management program that includes OMEX Primers can help your crop achieve its full potential.