Always use a seed treatment for control of seed-borne diseases, when planting canola. Use new, plump, vigorous, high germination seed. Seed shallowly into soil that is at least 3 o C for Argentine varieties and 7 o C for Polish varieties. Apply fertilizer and micronutrients according to soil test recommendations. Pay particular attention to available sulphur levels.
Canola does best on well-drained soils that allow the tap root to grow several feet down.
If possible, avoid seeding canola on flat or very heavy soils prone to mid-July flooding because it can result in drastically reduced yields. Chop and spread crop residues evenly for uniform crop germination in subsequent crops and to reduce such problems as disease, insect and weed infestations, nutrient tie-up, and equipment plugging. Minimize insect pest infestations. Retaining crop residues on the soil surface conserves soil moisture for better crop growth, but the whiter, more reflective surface of a straw-covered field contributes to cooler soil temperatures. Research by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at Swift Current indicates that canola residue is no more toxic to subsequent crops than residues from other crops.